Sacked Sunderland boss Paolo di Canio is being linked with Leeds United.

The Daily Star says prospective Leeds owner Massimo Cellino wants to force out manager Brian McDermott and bring in his own man.

It is understood Cellino plans to sack McDermott once his take-over is complete - but would prefer him to resign so he can escape paying him around £2m in compensation.

Cellino is believed to have held talks with both Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola and Di Canio about replacing McDermott at the Championship strugglers.