Sunderland open contract talks with Jack Whittaker after first-team call-up | OneFootball

Sunderland Echo understands that Sunderland are in talks with academy forward Jack Whittaker over a new contract following his recent first-team involvement.

Whittaker joined the club at the age of 10 after time with Wallsend Boys Club and signed his first professional deal last summer. That agreement runs for another year, with both parties now discussing fresh terms.

The forward has been a standout for the academy this season, scoring 11 goals and adding two assists in 29 appearances across all competitions. His haul includes four in Premier League 2 and five in the Premier League Cup. He also struck twice in a 4-2 win over Blackburn Rovers to book a Premier League Cup final against Burnley at the Stadium of Light later this month.

His progress has been recognised by Régis Le Bris, with Whittaker named on the bench for the Premier League fixture against Brighton at the Stadium of Light. He was also among the substitutes for FA Cup ties away to Port Vale and Oxford United, as Sunderland monitor the pathway between the under-21s and senior squad.

The club have prioritised academy development in recent years, aiming to retain leading prospects while maintaining a clear route to senior football. Whittaker is regarded as one of the more promising talents in the youth set-up.

Source: Sunderland Echo