Sunderland have been given permission to speak to Preston manager Simon Grayson as they continue their search for David Moyes’ successor.
The Black Cats, who were relegated to the Championship last season, have been looking to appoint a new manager since Moyes resigned at the end of May.
However, they could soon be about to end their extensive search for a new head coach after Preston announced they have given their Championship rivals permission to talk to Grayson about filling their vacant managerial role.
“Preston North End have today been contract by Sunderland Football Club to ask permission to speak to Simon Grayson in relation to their vacant managerial position,” a statement read on the club’s official website.
“Having spoken to Simon, he has asked permission to speak to the Black Cats and therefore the club had no option but to allow these conversations to take place, with a compensation package already guaranteed in his contract.
“Whilst these talks are ongoing, Steve Thompson will be in charge of first team affairs.”
Grayson has been Preston manager since February 2013 and gained promotion from League One with the Lilywhites in his first full season in charge of the club.
The former Leeds United manager has since consolidated Preston’s place in the Championship in the last two campaigns, recording successive 11th place finishes.
During his time in charge of Preston, Gray has won an impressive 44.7% of his matches in charge – the second best rate he has achieved at any club in his managerial career.
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