Paolo Di Canio is set to open talks with a view to taking over the Sunderland hot seat.

The controversial Italian has traveled to the North East to discuss replacing Martin O'Neill at the Stadium of Light according to reports.

The ex-Lazio and West Ham player was in charge of Swindon between 2011 and 2013, leading the club to promotion from League 2 last season.

However he resigned from the job in January due to financial restrictions at the club.