Aquilani out at Sassuolo, Roberto D'Aversa set to take over

Several sources report that Sassuolo are certain to have chosen Roberto D'Aversa as their new head coach after ending Alberto Aquilani's tenure. His name had begun to be mentioned on Sunday, following the 0-3 defeat to Roma that sealed Aquilani's fate.

Despite Sky Sport Italia raising the name of Vincenzo Montella, the former Turkey national team coach, D'Aversa appeared to be the only real candidate for the job. Sportitalia, Sky Sport Italia and Fabrizio Romano are among the sources confirming that the club has finalised the details of the new contract. The deal is expected to run until the end of the current season. There is no automatic renewal option, but the door is left open for an extension if he succeeds.

Aquilani was officially dismissed today, after five consecutive Serie A defeats. Sassuolo had remained close to the bottom of the table during this period. Aquilani had taken charge this summer, replacing Fabio Grosso, and it was his first time leading a top-flight team.

D'Aversa, 51, is returning to Serie A. Last season, from February until the end of the season, he managed Torino for 12 matches and steered the team away from the danger zone. He had previously worked at Parma, Sampdoria, Lecce and Empoli.