Giovanni Trapattoni has confirmed that he will become the Republic of Ireland's new manager at the end of the Austrian season.The former Italy coach, currently manager of Austrian club Red Bulls Salzburg, is expected to be confirmed as the successor to Steve Staunton after a Football Association of Ireland board meeting today.

Trapattoni, 68, is set to take on his new post after his current deal with Salzburg expires in May and he plans to bow out by guiding Red Bull to the league title.

"Leaving the title as a farewell present to my Bulls is now my number one aim," Trapattoni told the Salzburg website.

Trapattoni, who managed Italy from 2000 to 2004, is believed to have agreed a two-year deal with the FAI who have been searching for a replacement for Staunton since his dismissal in October in the wake of a disappointing Euro 2008 qualifying campaign.

FAI chief executive John Delaney confirmed earlier this week that one name had been endorsed by the selection panel and that a media conference would be held today.

Trapattoni brings with him bags of experience and an impressive track record with six Serie A titles with Juventus and one with Inter Milan to his name.

He also proved his ability to coach overseas by guiding Bayern Munich, Benfica and Salzburg to league titles.

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