MONTBELIARD, France (AFP) - Francis Gillot looks set to become the new coach of French first division strugglers FC Sochaux after the club announced on Sunday they were in advanced negotiations with the former Lens boss.

If given the green light Gillot will replace caretaker manager Jean-Luc Ruty, who was placed in charge after the club sacked head coach Frederic Hantz in December, at the helm.

"Nothing has been decided yet. We are still in negotiations," said the club's administrative director Pierre Wantiez who added that "the hiring of Francis Gillot is extremely probable."

"If everything goes well, it should be announced tomorrow (Monday) but there won't be an announcement tonight (Sunday)," said Wantiez, who also said that if a deal is reached Gillot "would take up his duties from January 2."

The 37-year-old Gillot had a professional playing career that spanned over 20 years and played as a defender for Valenciennes, Lens, Strasbourg and Mulhouse and coached Lens between 2005 and 2007.

French Cup winners, Sochaux, are currently battling to stay in the French top flight in 19th position with only 16 points from 19 games.