The Telegraph yesterday reported McEwan, who has been in his current role since last August, is the leading candidate for the chief executive position following a six week search.
His appointment will need to be approved by the FCA, the PRA, the RBS board and UK Financial Investments, which manages the government’s 18% stake in the bank.
His appointment could come as soon as Friday, when the bank releases its half-year results, although due to the complexity of the process it is unlikely a final decision will be made for a few weeks.
A spokesperson declined to comment on the matter, and would not say when a formal announcement would be made.
Hester’s departure was announced following a board meeting last month and in a statement he described it as a “board decision, not mine”.
