The Mets now have 72 hours to complete the deal for Johan Santana and Omar Minaya is not wasting any time by meeting with Santana’s agent Peter Greenberg later today.

Now here’s the problem, the Mets need to compete the deal no mater what. If they don’t it will kill the fanbase, which is already disillusioned, so Greenberg is in a position of strength.

From what we are hearing the deal will come out to more than $126 million - the Barry Zito number - but will probably be six years, meaning the base amount per season will be lower.

Most don’t think that will be a problem, mainly because Minaya knew this number going in. Also the Wilpons will be willing to pay up, because they want to have a front line name going into Citi Field, while trying to fill Shea Stadium in its last season. With Santana, Shea has a good chance of selling out for his starts, which will offset the cost of the pitcher.

Also, remember they have the $11 million they are not paying Tom Glavine, so the hit won’t be as great.

That said, there’s still a lot that can happen to tiew up this trade and 5 p.m. on Friday will come sooner than you think.

Clock’s ticking….