Dave Whelan is reported to be lining up Roberto Martinez as a replacement for Steve Bruce

Bruce has been given permission to talk to the Black Cats and it is reported that Roberto is top of the list to replace him at the JJB although no official approach has yet been made to the Swans.

Whelan is likely to ask for up to £5m compensation for Bruce whilst he thinks that Roberto will be available for around a fifth of that to return to the club that gave him his break in English football.

Whelan has long since been an admirer of the Swansea manager and that admiration has only increased in his 27 months in management which has seen him earn rave plaudits from a host of people admiring the way that he plays football.

Swansea remain confident that the speculation does not mean the imending departure of Roberto though and have stated their belief that Martinez will remain true to his statement that he will remain at the club to see out the job that he started back in 2007.

Whelan has previously said of Roberto "Roberto has transformed Swansea City and taken League One by storm. There’s no doubt he’s got the ability to manage in the Premier League one day.

“What he’s achieved as a manager is remarkable and he’s done it playing football.”

The speculation is likely to continue over the coming weeks and Whelan is almost certain to ask for permission to talk to the Swans boss should Bruce take over at the Stadium of Light

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