Sunderland await Dan Ballard update as summer contract calls loom | OneFootball

Sunderland are awaiting an update on Dan Ballard’s fitness before Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle United. Several squad members are also approaching pivotal moments in their contracts.

According to Sunderland Echo, nine players are out of contract this summer, with options attached to some deals, and another seven will enter their final 12 months.

Ballard has become integral over the last year and has impressed against Premier League forwards this season. Earlier this month he was named North East Football Writers Player of the Year at Ramside Hall.

The centre-back has also signed a new long-term agreement at the Stadium of Light, easing speculation over a move away.

Sunderland’s contract picture shows expiries spread across 2026 to 2030. For 2026, Simon Moore, Bertrand Traore, Lutsharel Geertruida and Dennis Cirkin are among those listed. Several others are currently out on loan.

Deals running to 2027 include Reinildo Mandava, Luke O’Nien and Abdoullah Ba, alongside loanees Alan Browne, Nazariy Rusyn, Arthur Masuaku and Aji Alese. For 2028, names include Granit Xhaka, Wilson Isidor, Romaine Mundle, Jenson Seelt, Timothee Pembele, Anthony Patterson and Leo Hjelde.

Looking further ahead, Nordi Mukiele, Omar Alderete, Brian Brobbey and Enzo Le Fee are noted for 2029. To 2030, Trai Hume, Simon Adingra, Habib Diarra, Chris Rigg, Eliezer Mayenda, Nilson Angulo and Ballard are among those under contract.

Source: Sunderland Echo