Wigan Athletic boss Steve Bruce is in talks with Sunderland.
The Sun says Bruce has held talks with Sunderland about taking over as boss — if they beat the drop.
Wigan manager Bruce spoke to Black Cats chairman Niall Quinn with a view to replacing Ricky Sbragia, who only signed an 18-month contract in December.
A source said: “It seems Steve is not happy with his best players at Wigan being sold.
“He would get full backing at Sunderland who have the resources and ambition to match his own.
"But Sunderland must stay up so Steve can take them to the next level."