Northampton Town have granted Chris Wilder permission to discuss the managerial vacancy at Charlton Athletic.
The Addicks, who have been relegated to League One, made the approach to the Cobblers following Jose Riga's announcement at the weekend that he was leaving The Valley.
This season, Wilder guided Northampton to the League Two title, thanks in part to a 24-game unbeaten run.
However, if talks with Charlton end positively, he will come up against the Sixfields outfit next term.
"As is common knowledge I have an excellent relationship with both Chris and Alan (Knill, assistant), and we as a club and myself personally would obviously be very sorry to see them go," chairman Kelvin Thomas told the club's official website.
"We had already begun discussions about much improved new deals, but I think it is fair to say we would not be able to match both the salary and the playing budget for next season that a club the size of Charlton could offer. I respect their decision to meet Charlton."
Forty-eight-year-old Wilder added: "My relationship with the chairman and the fans is going to make this a very difficult decision, but I do feel at this stage of my career it is one I need to explore."
Prior to Northampton, Wilder has managed Alfreton Town, Halifax Town and Oxford United.
Liam Apicella
