St Mirren have "reluctantly" accepted an approach from Sunderland to speak to Jack Ross over becoming the League One side's new manager.
Ross guided the Saints back to the Scottish Premiership this season, earning the Scottish Manager of the Year award for his efforts.
The 41-year-old's achievement has been noted south of the border, too, as the Black Cats made him their leading candidate to take charge once it became clear that Sheffield United's Chris Wilder was out of reach.
Sunderland have now moved a step closer to appointing Ross, as talks can officially get underway.
A statement on the Scottish side's official website read: "St Mirren Football Club can confirm we received a formal approach from Sunderland AFC this afternoon for permission to speak to our manager Jack Ross.
"After agreeing to our terms we have reluctantly given them permission to speak to Jack about their vacant manager's position."
Ross is also understood to have held discussions with Ipswich Town owner Marcus Evans in recent days.
Daniel Lewis
