SUNDERLAND have achieved a major breakthrough in their pursuit of managerial target Derek McInnes after they were given permission to speak to the current Aberdeen boss.

The Black Cats have agreed a compensation package with the Dons, and are now free to conduct personal talks with their number one target to replace David Moyes.

With those talks expected to take place in the next 24 hours, McInnes should be confirmed as Sunderland's new manager before the weekend.

An Aberdeen club statement said: "The club can confirm that early this afternoon Sunderland FC agreed to meet all the contractual obligations for both Derek McInnes and Tony Docherty and they have, reluctantly, been granted permission to speak with both of them about the vacant managerial position at Sunderland."

McInnes has already indicated a strong desire to move to the Stadium of Light, and is understood to be aware of the financial parameters he will have work within next season.

He still has to agree his wage package on Wearside and the length of his contract, but it is hoped those details can be quickly finalised.

Aberdeen's board began today by digging in their heels and insisting they had not reached an agreement with Sunderland.

However, that situation changed when Black Cats chief executive Martin Bain agreed to pay around £1m to release McInnes from the remaining two years of his contract at Pittodrie.

With Paul Bracewell set to leave his position as Sunderland's assistant manager, the Black Cats have also agreed a deal for Tony Docherty, who is currently McInnes' number two at Aberdeen.