Sunderland contract latest as major summer decisions loom | OneFootball

Sunderland face significant contract calls this summer as they juggle a European push with off-field planning. Sunderland Echo notes that several deals expire in the coming months, sharpening the club’s priorities.

Despite a 4-3 loss at Aston Villa on Sunday, the Black Cats are 11th in the Premier League, four points off sixth with a game in hand. That position may yet carry a Champions League place, depending on the Europa League outcome. Their strong top-flight return has been fuelled by last summer’s spend on Brian Brobbey, Granit Xhaka, Robin Roefs and Nordi Mukiele, among others.

Among those out of contract in summer 2026 are Simon Moore, Bertrand Traore, loan signing Lutsharel Geertruida, Dennis Cirkin, Harrison Jones, Niall Huggins, Zak Johnson and Dan Neil. Deals running to 2027 include Reinildo Mandava, Luke O’Nien, Abdoullah Ba, Alan Browne, Nazariy Rusyn, Arthur Masuaku and Aji Alese.

Traore made a bright start but has been out since early March and has one goal, so a renewal looks unlikely. Neil is on loan at Ipswich Town and it has already been confirmed he will not receive a new deal. Cirkin has been in and out yet dependable when used, so Sunderland may look to keep him as a low-cost back-up, though he will certainly want more minutes.

Geertruida has been important under Regis Le Bris, covering full-back, centre-back and central midfield. The club would like to keep him beyond his loan if possible, although Le Bris said it is still too early to discuss that. Sunderland will also monitor those entering the final year of their terms, notably Reinildo Mandava and Luke O’Nien.

Source: Sunderland Echo