It was then expected that the club would find a permanent replacement shortly after the defeat to Sheffield Wednesday, but they still remain without a head coach as they approach the summer transfer window.
The Black Cats have already been linked with the likes of Danny Rohl, Bo Svensson and Rene Maric, who are no longer available after taking too long to pursue their targets.
While Will Still still seems to be on the table, a new name has now been thrown into the ring.
Rumours have been circling of Sunderland’s interest in Pascal Jansen, however there has been very little said on their pursuit.
The London-born coach has been out of work since he was sacked by AZ in January, where he had spent the past six years.
Jansen has spent time as a coach at PSV and AZ, working under current Liverpool manager Arne Slot at the latter before replacing him as head coach.
The 51-year-old was linked with Norwich City last month and could now be set for a move to Wearside instead.
Journalist Alan Nixon has issued an update on Jansen, writing on X: “Believe he is of serious interest… if he comes on terms offered and what staff he brings…”
Sunderland’s main problem attracting managers has been due to their transfer policy, as well as apparently refusing to allow coaches to bring their own staff.
With time running out, the Black Cats really need to reconsider their demands and give their new coach a bit more control over their arrival.
Can Sunderland benefit from Arne Slot relationship?
Nixon has already hailed Jansen as a ‘good coach‘, while the reaction on social media has mostly been positive.
With previous interest from Ajax and Spartak Moscow, it seems apparent that Jansen is a very attractive coach and Sunderland could well be in line for a huge coup.