EDDIE Mitchell says he is “optimistic” Cherries will find the right man to fill their vacant manager’s post – with Eddie Howe understood to be set for a sensational return to the club.

Chairman Mitchell and the Cherries board are believed to have immediately set their sights on Burnley boss Howe in the aftermath of Paul Groves being relieved of his duties seven days ago.

News of Cherries' interest in their former manager was revealed exclusively by the Daily Echo just hours after Groves's departure had been confirmed.

Howe, in his first managerial job, helped preserve Cherries' Football League status in 2008 before leading them to promotion just 12 months later.

The 34-year-old would also be seen as the popular choice among the majority of Cherries supporters.

And while Mitchell initially suggested the club would be unlikely to appoint from a higher level, it is understood co-owner Maxim Demin would be prepared to push the boat out financially in order for Cherries to get the right man for the job.

Howe left Cherries for Burnley in January 2011 and signed a three-and-a-half year deal at Turf Moor.

He took with him assistant boss Jason Tindall and fitness coach Jon Dalzell, while backroom staff Jason Blake and Des Taylor later followed.

Speaking to the Daily Echo earlier today, Mitchell politely declined to confirm or deny whether Cherries had made an official approach to Burnley for permission to speak with Howe.

And while Mitchell has understandably remained tight-lipped regarding the identity of any of the candidates on the club’s short-list, Howe is understood to top their wish-list.

His return, together with Tindall and any other members of staff, would almost certainly see Burnley demand a hefty compensation package, notwithstanding anything which may be outstanding from when Howe left.

Also, Cherries are understood to be owed instalments from the deals that took Marvin Bartley and Danny Ings to Turf Moor which may offset any potential payment.

A report published earlier today on the Daily Mail website claimed Cherries had offered the Clarets £1.4million, a figure Mitchell was quick to scotch.

Mitchell, who seemed taken aback after the figure had been put to him, quipped: “It is just not feasible for the club to offer £1.4m – whether it be for Eddie Howe or Alex Ferguson!”

He added: “We are hopeful of appointing somebody to take us forward. I am optimistic about getting the right man but it takes time and patience. I don’t want the supporters’ expectations to be brought to a height and then dropped back down.

“We are trying to do what is best for the club and to find the right manager.”