Sunderland are hoping to appoint Lee Johnson as their new head coach after talks with the former Bristol City boss.
The Black Cats sacked Phil Parkinson earlier this week with the team seventh in League One.
They confirmed the arrival of Birmingham City’s Kristjaan Speakman as their new sporting director on Friday, and Johnson is expected to follow.
Gus Poyet, Danny Cowley and Paul Cook were also on the managerial shortlist, but it is Johnson who has impressed the hierarchy.
The 39-year-old was sacked by Bristol City in July after four years at Ashton Gate.