The former England defender is set to tie up a five year deal in the next few days, and the Smoggies went ahead with the move believing a precedent has been set by Newcastle United appointing Glenn Roeder.
FA Premier League rules state coaches without the Pro Licence can only take charge of a club for 12 weeks but the top flight's club chairmen recently voted to allow Roeder dispensation.
Roeder had been enrolled on a Pro Licence course in the past but was forced to withdraw due to illness. He will now take the year-long course in order to be fully qualified by the end of next season. Middlesbrough have argued that Southgate has been unable to get his coaching badges because he is still playing.
Keith Lamb: “Middlesbrough and Gareth should not suffer because he has had such a successful career at club and international level. Until recently Gareth has spent his summers serving his country as a player. It makes little sense such players should be denied rare opportunities like the one he now has simply because he hasn't had the chance to gain the qualifications.”
The Premier League are to talk to both Boro and the LMA about Southgate's appointment.