Sunderland open Lutsharel Geertruida talks as retained list confirms exits for Bertrand Traoré and others | OneFootball

Sunderland have opened talks over a permanent deal for Lutsharel Geertruida after issuing their retained list, which confirms exits for Dan Neil, Dennis Cirkin, Bertrand Traoré and Niall Huggins.

Sunderland Echo understands three players listed as retained are expected to move on this summer, with the club aiming to protect its position through small fees or sell-on clauses.

The Netherlands international, 25, spent last season on loan from RB Leipzig, and Sunderland hold an option to buy subject to the player's approval.

Geertruida impressed at Feyenoord, winning the Eredivisie. He finished strongly, his versatility aiding Régis Le Bris' side as Sunderland took seventh and booked Europa League football, prompting another Netherlands call-up.

Neil departs after more than 200 appearances, helping promotion from League One and later captaining the club in the Premier League. Cirkin leaves after five years and over 120 games.

Huggins moves on after an injury-hit spell but with a standout 2023-24 strike against Watford that won Goal of the Season. Traoré exits after one year at the Stadium of Light.

Nine under-21s will depart, and second-year scholars Ivan Struk and George Bell also leave. Professional terms have been offered to Finn Geragusian, Liam Hunt, Charlie Dinsdale, Bayley Hester, Marcus Neill, Finlay Holcroft, Joseph Neild and Felix Scott.

All other first-team players are retained as Sunderland prepare for another Premier League campaign and a return to European football under Le Bris. Talks over Geertruida's future continue.

Source: Sunderland Echo