The Brazilian has always said he was keen to keep a British presence in his staff, especially as he saw Clarke as a vital link between himself and the players.
Wilkins, who won 84 England caps, was unable to confirm or deny the appointment last night and indicated nothing had yet been completed. But Chelsea hope to have him in place in time for Sunday's match against United at Stamford Bridge.
By coincidence, Wilkins is also a former United player, appearing 160 times for the club between 1979 and 1984.
His return to Chelsea will be a boost for Scolari who was shocked by Clarke's move to West Ham having formed a close bond with the Scotsman in a short space of time.
In a bid to keep Clarke, he offered him more responsibility but had to admit defeat when the coach resigned and Chelsea and West Ham agreed compensation after a brief row.
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