The Potters are on the hunt for a new boss having shown Michael O’Neill the exit door earlier this week owing to a poor start to their campaign.
Sunderland boss Neil is currently at the top of Stoke’s list of managerial candidates and they have already held talks with three of their alternative options.
Neil only took charge of the Black Cats in February and managed to guide them to promotion from League One.
But the Scot asked the Wearside giants for permission to enter negotiations with Stoke, following the departure of O’Neill.
Neil sought consent from his bosses at the Stadium of Light knowing that he will get the job as he is the Potters’ top candidate to succeed O’Neill in the bet365 Stadium hot seat.
Sunderland have ambitions to earn Premier League promotion this season and Neil’s departure would be a big blow for the club, especially since they have also done business in the transfer market to back him.
The Wearside giants are tipped to demand compensation from Stoke should they reach an agreement with Neil over a deal.
It is not expected to be an issue for Stoke, who will hand Neil a salary of £1.5m, while the Potters are also closer to his Lancashire home.
