Sunderland owners address takeover talk, Geertruida ‘to leave’ as academy decisions unfold | OneFootball

Sunderland’s owners have moved to quell takeover speculation, as clarity emerges over Lutsharel Geertruida’s future and academy contracts.

Footbiz reported on Friday that potential investors had been alerted to the club’s availability, with US bank Moelis retained. The club said they remain fully committed and are planning for next season after securing Premier League safety, without addressing every claim.

Kyril Louis-Dreyfus holds 64 per cent, Juan Sartori 36 per cent, via Mercator, with the club part of their Bia Sports Group portfolio.

According to Sky Sports Germany, Sunderland will not take up their option to sign Geertruida permanently from RB Leipzig this summer. The option is believed to be around £20 million, with the outlet reporting €23 million, after he joined on loan last summer with a buy clause.

Geertruida has made 27 appearances but has not secured a regular start under Régis Le Bris. Le Bris said it was still too early to decide, yet the report later stated the defender will not remain beyond the season.

Sunderland remain in talks with Jack Whittaker, while Dan Cameron and Jake Waters are expected to leave when their contracts expire in June. Hebburn Town want Cameron and Waters after promotion to National League North, and are also keen on a loan return for goalkeeper Isaac Allan, who is under contract. A move for Allan could hinge on a deal for Cameron, as Hebburn are unlikely to sign two goalkeepers.

Source: Sunderland Echo