Sunderland's former sporting director Kristjaan Speakman is in advanced talks to join FC Copenhagen, according to Sunderland Echo. Speakman left Sunderland in February and has been weighing up his options. He was a key figure in Sunderland's rise from League One to the Premier League across six years as sporting director. FC Copenhagen finished seventh in the 12-team Superliga last season and will play in the Conference League next season. Speakman could oversee a rebuild at the club after a season spent in the relegation phase for the first time. He stepped aside when Florent Ghisolfi assumed ultimate responsibility for the football operation. In his parting message, Speakman called the role the honour of a lifetime and thanked his family. He praised players and staff, highlighting reconnecting the team with the region's identity. The fans are the club's greatest asset, he said. FC Copenhagen parted company with sporting director Sune Smith-Nielsen in February and Speakman now appears in pole position to replace him. The club has regularly featured in the Champions League in recent years and won the league the previous campaign. Speakman's potential move to FC Copenhagen could be a significant step in his career, given the club's reputation in European football. He will look to bring his experience to the role and help the club succeed in the Conference League next season. And with his knowledge of the game, Speakman could be the perfect fit for FC Copenhagen. But the talks are still ongoing, and it remains to be seen if he will take the role. So far, Speakman has been tight-lipped about his future plans, but it is clear that he is considering his options carefully. The former sporting director has a lot to offer, and FC Copenhagen would be getting a highly experienced and skilled professional if they can secure his services.