Paolo Di Canio has agreed a deal to become the new Sunderland manager on a two-and-half year contract.
The Italian spent the day on Wearside and has put pen to paper after holding talks with Sunderland chairman Ellis Short.
Di Canio comes in to replace Martin O'Neill, who was dismissed as Sunderland boss yesterday following a 1-0 home defeat to Manchester United in the Premier League.
Sunderland currently sit a point above the relegation zone with seven games left this season after failing to win any of their last eight matches.
Di Canio will take charge of his first match next weekend as they visit Chelsea, before a North East derby against Newcastle United on April 14.
