Florent Ghisolfi context as former Leeds United defender Niall Huggins set to leave Sunderland | OneFootball

Niall Huggins is set to leave Sunderland this summer, with the club not expected to trigger their option to extend his contract.

Sunderland Echo understands the Black Cats do not currently plan to activate the extra year on the full-back’s deal. Huggins agreed fresh terms in October 2024 through to summer 2026, with an option for a further year.

The Wales international, 25, joined from Leeds United in 2021, helped secure promotion from League One under Alex Neil, and later featured in the Championship before injuries disrupted his progress.

He made one senior outing under Régis Le Bris this season, playing the first half of the EFL Cup tie against Huddersfield Town, then moved to Wycombe Wanderers on loan.

Across 2025-26 he has made 24 appearances for Wycombe in all competitions, scoring once with two assists, comprising 19 in League One, three in the EFL Trophy and two in the EFL Cup.

His anticipated departure comes as Sunderland prepare to publish their retained list within the next week or so. Squad planning is already shaped by a Premier League return and historic Europa League qualification for 2026-27.

When fit he has shown pace, versatility and technical quality on both flanks. His standout spell came in 2023-24 when he netted his first professional goal in a 2-0 win over Watford at the Stadium of Light.

Source: Sunderland Echo