Sunderland are targeting Wycombe's Gareth Ainsworth to become their new manager after making a formal approach to the League One club.

Ainsworth is emerging as Sunderland's No 1 target to succeed Jack Ross, who was sacked on Tuesday, and talks are expected to progress over the next 24 hours.

The 46-year-old has established an excellent reputation at Wycombe, guiding the club to promotion from League Two last year and second place this season.

Wycombe will demand compensation for Ainsworth, who has been in charge since November 2012, but it is understood the transfer fee is minimal.

Sunderland made their approach on Wednesday and are now expected to step up negotiations with a view to making him the club's new manager.

Ironically, Sunderland's next game in League One is a trip to Wycombe on Saturday October 19.

Sunderland dismissed Ross after an underwhelming start to the campaign, with the Black Cats currently sixth in the third tier.