Sunderland have held talks with former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen about the manager's job.
The Telegraph says Sunderland owner Ellis Short has spoken to Meulensteen about becoming the club's new manager despite having already interviewed Gus Poyet.
Former Brighton boss Poyet has been recommended by Sunderland director of football Roberto de Fanti, but Short wants to look at other potential replacements.
De Fanti was also the driving force behind the appointment of Di Canio, whose only previous managerial experience had come with Swindon Town, and Short has been impressed by Meulensteen's track record.
