Sources: Paul Cook is top contender to be new Plymouth Argyle manager after talks
Chesterfield boss Paul Cook is the top contender to become the new Plymouth Argyle manager, sources have told Football Insider.
It is believed that talks have been held between Cook, 56, and the Championship side to fill the vacant role in Devon.
Former boss Steven Schumacher left the dugout in December to join Stoke City after his two-year spell at the club.
Cook has guided Chesterfield to the top of the National League and has won 19 out of 24 games played in England's fifth tier this season.
His second spell with the Spireites has been successful but he narrowly missed promotion to League Two at the end of last season after losing to Notts County on penalties in the playoff final.
Plymouth Argyle have done well to avoid entering a relegation battle after winning promotion as League One champions last season.
Cook has had spells across the English football pyramid at clubs including Portsmouth, Wigan Athletic and Ipswich Town as well as a stint in the Republic of Ireland with Sligo Rovers.
A move to Plymouth would be his first foray into the Championship and the highest level he has managed in England.
Plymouth currently sit 16th in the Championship table after their 2-2 draw against Cardiff City on Boxing Day.
They next travel to St Mary's Stadium to face promotion contenders Southampton on Friday (29 December).