Neil led Sunderland to play-off glory at Wembley in May and lost just two league games during his six-months on Wearside.
His last game saw the Black Cats defeat Stoke City 1-0 at the Bet365 Stadium - a result that sparked the end of Michael O’Neil’s time in charge of the Potters.
Neil has now been given permission to speak to Stoke City.
Neil has been given permission to speak to the Potters about the vacant position and is the clear favourite with bookmakers to take charge at the bet365 Stadium.
Here, we take a look at the early contenders to be the next manager in the Stadium of Light dugout should he leave:
Would you like to see any of these take charge at Sunderland? Follow us on our social media channels and let us know your thoughts there:
1. Sean Dyche
Dyche has been out of work since leaving Burnley in April. His work at Turf Moor shows that he has the skills and experience to guide teams out of the Championship and build solid foundations for the future. Photo: Stephen Pond
2. Slaven Bilic
Bilic is currently without a club after a year-long stint in China came to an end in January. His last job in England saw Bilic guide West Brom to promotion from the second-tier at the first time of asking. Photo: Michael Regan
3. Liam Manning
Although MK Dons have started slowly this season, Manning’s work last season can’t be overlooked. Dons were very much ‘best of the rest’ in League One after taking over from Russel Martin on the eve of the season. Photo: Alex Burstow
4. Wayne Rooney
Although Rooney has only just taken up the role as manager of D.C. United in the MLS, his work at Derby County makes him a contender for many Championship job openings. Derby’s financial struggles during Rooney’s tenure were well documented - the question of what he could do without boardroom drama could be answered soon. Photo: James Gill