Motherwell want Sunderland chief scout Ricky Sbragia as new manager.
The Scottish Sun says the 54-year-old Scot has emerged as the leading contender for the Well job.
Sbragia led Sunderland to Premiership safety in 2009 before quitting the Stadium Of Light.
The Scot could be poised for a shock return to management with Well chief executive Leeann Dempster working to secure his services.
Sbragia is highly thought of within the game and was once reserve team coach at Manchester United.
