Gus Poyet is being linked with Martin Jol's job at Fulham.
The Daily Star says Sunderland are in pole position to snap up out-of-work Poyet, who was considered for the Fulham job when Jol was on the brink at the end of last season.
But after rushing to appoint Paolo Di Canio last season, Black Cats chairman Ellis Short wants to take his time before appointing his successor.
And that could leave the door open for Fulham to make a fresh move for the Uruguayan.
