Sunderland are interested in Manchester City boss Mark Hughes.

The News of the World says Hughes has been sounded out about replacing Ricky Sbragia at Sunderland.

Sbragia's days at the Stadium of Light are numbered as his men struggle to escape the relegation zone.

And with doubts over Sparky's position as Manchester City boss, Black Cats chairman Niall Quinn has made his move.

Sunderland have also been linked with Gordon Strachan, Martin Jol and Louis van Gaal but Hughes would be the outstanding candidate if he parts company with City in the summer.