Michael Beale is in advanced talks to become Sunderland's new manager.
The 43-year-old is set to be named as Tony Mowbray's successor at the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland have spoken to a series of potential candidates - with Reims boss Will Still thought to be among them - since Mowbray's departure, but they appear to have made ground with Beale amid suggestions he could watch Saturday's. Championship fixture at Bristol City from the stands
Sunderland parted company with Mowbray earlier this month, with his departure coming two days after a 1-1 draw at Millwall - a result that extended a run of one win from five games.
Mike Dodds was put in interim charge and he has helped the club to two wins from two games, beating West Brom and Leeds to leave them sixth in the Championship table with Beale poised to take over.
Beale has previously managed QPR in the Championship before a spell with Rangers in the Scottish Premiership.
