The Sunderland hierarchy were told by the FA when they formally asked to speak to Allardyce that they wanted to interview other candidates, but owner Ellis Short does not want the search for a new manager to begin from scratch if Allardyce does – as is now widely expected - take charge of the national team.

As a result, Telegraph Sport understands the club will make tentative enquiries, through intermediaries, to discover whether former Everton and Manchester United manager David Moyes would be interested in replacing Allardyce, who is likely to recommend the Scot if he does leave.

Given Moyes has been out of work since he was sacked by Real Sociedad in November last year, he is expected to welcome the approach. Other names under consideration are Burnley boss Sean Dyche, while former Manchester United star Ryan Giggs would be another contender, as he looks to take on his first management role since leaving Old Trafford earlier this month.