The Los Angeles Dodgers are reportedly close in hammering a new deal with setup man Brian Wilson, a source close to situation reported on Thursday.

Wilson, who went 2-1 with 0.66 ERA in 18 games as a setup man for the Dodgers last season, has expressed his interest to re-assume his old role with his team, provided that he would be given a chance to be the team's closer if Kenley Jansen struggles or suffers an injury next season.

"Sources said Wilson has made it clear to the Dodgers that he's willing to return to the team as a setup man in 2014, with an opportunity to take over as closer if Jansen falters or gets hurt," according to ESPN baseball insider Jerry Crasnick.

The Seattle Mariners, Colorado Rockies and Detroit Tigers all showed interest in signing the free-agent relief pitcher. The New York Yankees also made a run at Wilson, but potential negotiations quickly collapsed after the Bronx Bombers learned that Wilson was unwilling to shave his facial hair.

"We could use bullpen help, but you can cross him [Wilson] off the list," New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman told the Los Angeles Times about Wilson's decision not to shave his beard. "I was told, 'Don't even bother.'"

Deeper Bullpen for the Dodgers

The Dodgers already have one of the deepest starting rotations in baseball with two-time CY Young winner Clayton Kershaw, Zach Greinke and newly-signed Dan Haren leading the charge on the mound.

But their bullpen was a significant part of the Dodgers' success last season as they reached the National League Championship Series, only to lose to the St. Louis Cardinals.

"A strong and deep bullpen was a significant factor in the Dodgers' run to the National League West title in 2013. Los Angeles' bullpen went 30-24 with an aggregate 3.49 ERA, while ranking seventh in the league in strikeouts (451) and fourth in batting average against (.240)," ESPN stated.

Wilson, who signed a one-year, $1 million deal last season after holding a work out in July, is expected to have a critical role in his second year with the Dodgers.