The Italian has been under pressure after Sunderland’s poor start to the season, with his transfers under scrutiny.
De Fanti joined Sunderland last year, and was instrumental in the club bringing in 14 new players in the summer.
But they have been largely unsuccessful, with Paolo Di Canio, Kevin ball and Gus Poyet opting against using them regularly, and De Fanti has paid the price for their failure.
The Wearsiders issued the following statement: “Sunderland AFC has announced that the club has parted company with director of football Roberto De Fanti.
“The club would like to place on record its’ thanks to Roberto, and wishes him well for the future.”