Having started the week with talks over the vacant Charlton Athletic job, Wilder will be unveiled on Thursday as the new manager of Sheffield United, a club close to his heart after two spells there as a player.
Nigel Adkins' departure from Bramall Lane after a disappointing season has been officially confirmed by the Blades with the club saying that 'we hope to make an appointment very shortly, with promotion from this division once again the priority.'
If Wilder is to leave Sixfields, a move to his hometown makes more sense than his flirtation with the role at Charlton, the Addicks having gone through a disastrous season on and off the pitch and having gained a reputation for hiring and firing head coaches in recent years.
Sheffield United sack Nigel Adkins
Update: Wilder's move was confirmed on Thursday afternoon, a three-year contract having been signed at Bramall Lane.
"Sheffield United is a very big club for this division and Chris has always been a fan. I think this opportunity was too good for him to turn down," Cobblers chairman Kelvin Thomas said.