Cats want Martin O’Neill as boss this week

MARTIN O'NEILL is on course to become the new Sunderland boss within the next 48 hours.

The former Aston Villa chief is in talks after being approached yesterday following Steve Bruce's sacking.

SunSport understands Mark Hughes has also finally had contact about the vacancy.

But a Black Cats source revealed: "Martin's the one the club want but now it is up for all parties to be able to negotiate a package everyone is happy with.

"Mark Hughes is also on a list but Martin has the overwhelming support of the board."

O'Neill, 59, will now attempt to thrash out terms with owner Ellis Short as well as getting guarantees on being backed in the transfer market.

Short was unwilling to fund another splurge by Brucie in January yet the club remain in a decent financial state leaving O'Neill with money to spend.

Sunderland hope to tie up O'Neill by the weekend even though coach Eric Black will be in charge at Wolves on Sunday.

The source added: "Ellis wants to see the Stadium of Light packed week in, week out and believes bringing in Martin would see an extra 5,000 come through the turnstiles."

O'Neill is desperate to get back into football after quitting Villa Park in August last year following a series of rows with owner Randy Lerner.

I understand he would have taken over at West Ham in the summer if they had not got relegated so will naturally jump at the chance to take the reins in the North East.

Rafa Benitez, 51, would also love the chance to replace Bruce but is way down the pecking order.

Mackems strike legend Kevin Phillips, 38, said: "O'Neill would be perfect.

"You just have to watch him on the touchline to know just how passionate he is about the game.

"He's also a Sunderland fan so I think it would be a great acquisition."