Sunderland are still searching for their new manager but they haven't made contact with the bookmakers favourite Aitor Karanka.

That's the latest according to journalist Guillem Balague, who sent a series of tweets regarding the current situation surrounding the out of work manager.

The high-profile journalist also stated that he will only work on a 'project that excites him', revealing that he had already turned down several proposals, including Birmingham City, so that he can find the right job.

The ex-Boro boss has been without a job since leaving the Riverside last season. He took the Teesside club to the Premier League and is regarded by many as the ideal candidate for Sunderland – if they could convince him to take control at the Stadium of Light.

Given the situation of the owner Ellis Short, who wants to leave the club, it seem unlikely that Sunderland would be the project that would appeal to Karanka.

He may feel his reputation would see him get a job at the top end of the division, instead of fighting relegation.

The Verdict

This isn't great news for Sunderland fans. Aitor Karanka would be ideal for the job but he may take some convincing if you go by the tweets from Balague.

His ability to organise the team and the defensive shape would be ideal for the Wearside club and they should certainly make contact with the Spaniard to see if he would be interested.

Sunderland have nine days until their next game and will surely have a manager by then and if it was Karanka it would surely lift the mood around the club.

Thoughts, Sunderland fans? Let us know in the comments below.