Sunderland are in advanced discussions with Roy Keane over becoming their new manager - but will continue dialogue with other candidates in case the deal for their former boss collapses.
Sportsmail understands that some second interviews are planned for this week, with Grant McCann and Alex Neil also in the frame.
However, it is Keane who is the preferred choice after he was interviewed on Friday and negotiations have since centred on the make-up of his contract.
The 50-year-old has a lucrative television deal to consider and Sunderland want to appoint a manager on a short-term basis until the end of the season.