The former St Johnstone and Bristol City manager is set to sign a deal to take charge at Pittodrie, meaning Craig Brown can be relieved of duties and commence his new role in the boardroom.
Aberdeen had reportedly asked permission to talk to Ross County manager Derek Adams, but this was refused.
But chairman Stewart Milne is a long-time admirer of the former Dundee United midfielder, who had been the SPL's hottest managerial property after cementing St Johnstone's place in the division following years of yo-yoing between the top and second tiers.
McInnes has been unemployed after being axed by 'basket case' Championship side Bristol City, meaning that this managerial changeover will the the first that hasn't cost AFC a penny in compensation for nigh on 30 years.
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