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Dennis Cirkin’s contract and transfer situation at Sunderland explained amid interest from other clubs...

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Sunderland left-back Dennis Cirkin has once again been linked with a return to former club Tottenham Hotspur following the Black Cats’ promotion to the Premier League.

Here, we take you through everything that has been said about Cirkin, his current contract situation, and where Tottenham currently stand:

Do Tottenham have a buy-back clause for Dennis Cirkin?

Tottenham Hotspur did have a £6million buy-back option on Dennis Cirkin following his move to Sunderland in 2021 – but that clause expired on 30 June 2024. Reports had previously suggested that Spurs were exploring the possibility of activating the clause to bring the left-back back to North London.

While that window has now closed, Tottenham are still entitled to a percentage of the profit if Cirkin is sold on, due to a sell-on clause included in the original deal. Despite growing Premier League interest, Cirkin remains under contract at the Stadium of Light until 2026. Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman is understood to be prioritising a new deal for the 23-year-old defender, alongside talks with club captain Dan Neil, who is also entering the final 12 months of his agreement.

What do the latest transfer reports say about Dennis Cirkin and Tottenham?

Cirkin has been linked with a potential return to Spurs as the club seeks to comply with UEFA squad regulations ahead of their return to the Champions League. Clubs competing in Europe’s elite competition must name at least four ‘club-trained’ players in their 25-man squads – players who spent three full seasons at the club between the ages of 15 and 21. Tottenham currently have just one.

According to Football London journalist Alasdair Gold, Cirkin is being considered as a cost-effective option, having come through Spurs' academy before joining Sunderland. Gold wrote: “Spurs have looked at the past in bringing back 23-year-old left-back Dennis Cirkin, who has impressed at Sunderland. He made 39 appearances this season as the Black Cats returned to the Premier League through the play-offs, and he has 12 months remaining on his contract.”

Cirkin would meet UEFA’s definition of a club-trained player, which adds further appeal as new Spurs boss Thomas Frank rebuilds the squad for European competition. Fellow academy graduate Kyle Walker-Peters is also said to be under consideration.

What has Kristjaan Speakman said about Dennis Cirkin’s contract?

Sunderland are expected to reopen contract negotiations with both Cirkin and Dan Neil in the coming weeks, following a pause in talks during the club’s push for promotion.

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“We do a contract review right across the group at the end of every season,” Speakman said recently. “I think we're in a strong position with the majority of the group this time around, especially with a lot of the players who have performed at a really high level.”

“There are a couple there whose contracts are reducing, and we need to have a conversation around that, and that will happen in the coming weeks. That's part of trying to build the squad for next season. We don't have anyone out of contract this summer and so that means there isn't an immediate issue for us. We have a little bit of time to reflect. As I always say, it's got to be the right opportunity for the players and for us.”

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Tottenham have been linked with Sunderland promotion hero Dennis Cirkin as Thomas Frank eyes homegrown reinforcements

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Tottenham Hotspur are considering a move to re-sign Sunderland left-back Dennis Cirkin this summer, according to reports, as the North London club scramble to meet UEFA squad regulations ahead of their return to the Champions League.

It has been claimed that Cirkin is one of several former Spurs academy players being monitored as new head coach Thomas Frank plans for the 2025–26 campaign. Cirkin, now 23, was a key figure in Sunderland’s promotion-winning season, making 39 appearances as Régis Le Bris’ side returned to the Premier League via the play-offs. The defender has just 12 months remaining on his contract at the Stadium of Light, and his future remains uncertain heading into the final year of his deal.

Tottenham are facing pressure to comply with UEFA’s squad registration rules, which require every Champions League side to name at least four ‘club-trained’ players – footballers who spent at least three full seasons with the club between the ages of 15 and 21.

Currently, Spurs only have one such player in their senior squad, meaning at least three more must be registered ahead of European competition. Cirkin, who spent several years in the club’s youth system before joining Sunderland in 2021, qualifies as a club-trained player under UEFA rules.

Another former Spurs academy product, Kyle Walker-Peters, is also reportedly being considered. Tottenham correspondent Alasdair Gold, writing for Football London, recently confirmed the club’s renewed interest in Cirkin, stating: “Spurs have looked at the past in bringing back 23-year-old left-back Dennis Cirkin, who has impressed at Sunderland. He made 39 appearances this season as the Black Cats returned to the Premier League through the play-offs, and he has 12 months remaining on his contract.”

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Gold also noted that while Spurs previously held a buy-back clause on Cirkin, that clause expired last year. However, Tottenham do still hold a sell-on percentage, meaning any fee paid would be reduced by the amount owed to them, potentially making a deal financially appealing.

While no formal offer has been made, Sunderland are aware of Cirkin’s contract situation and the growing interest. With Premier League football secured, the club are expected to hold firm in any negotiations unless a deal meets their valuation, especially with Cirkin playing a major role in the club’s promotion push. Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman has also confirmed that contract talks with the full-back are underway.

What has Kristjaan Speakman said about contracts?

Sunderland are expected to reopen contract talks with midfield talisman Dan Neil and defender Dennis Cirkin in the coming weeks. Both players are entering the final year of their current deals, and the club is keen to tie them down to fresh terms ahead of the summer transfer window. Neil and Cirkin have attracted consistent top-flight interest, with reports in Italy linking AS Roma with a potential move for Neil following his standout campaign in the Championship.

Initial discussions over new contracts were paused last season to allow the players and club to focus fully on the promotion push. However, with Premier League football now secured, sporting director Kristjaan Speakman has made it clear that securing the futures of key assets is high on the club’s agenda, though he insists the situation is under control and progressing calmly.

“We do a contract review right across the group at the end of every season,” Speakman said. “I think we're in a strong position with the majority of the group this time around, especially with a lot of the players who have performed at a really high level.

“There are a couple there whose contracts are reducing and we need to have a conversation around that and that will happen in the coming weeks. That's part of trying to build the squad for next season. We don't have anyone out of contract this summer and so that means there isn't an immediate issue for us, we have a little bit of time to reflect. As I always say, it's got to be the right opportunity for the players and for us.”

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Sunderland midfielder Jobe Bellingham was named Championship Young Player of the Season over the weekend.

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Tottenham Hotspur midfielder James Maddison has sent a message to Sunderland starlet Jobe Bellingham after the latter was named Young Player of the Season at the Championship’s end of year awards.

The teenager has enjoyed a superb campaign on Wearside, and was also included in the second tier’s Team of the Season as well as scooping his individual accolade. Alongside Bellingham, Sunderland teammate Chris Rigg was handed the Championship’s Apprentice of the Season gong.

Indeed, Bellingham has performed at such a level in recent months that he finds himself at the centre of widespread transfer speculation, with several clubs from both the Premier League and abroad touted as admirers of the Black Cats sensation.

What did James Maddison say to Sunderland midfielder Jobe Bellingham?

To that end, one of the clubs who have been credited with an interest in Bellingham are Tottenham, and one of Spurs’ key players, James Maddison, went out of his way to congratulate the Sunderland talent in the aftermath of his awards success.

The England international was one of several recognisable names to react to the news of Bellingham’s triumph via Instagram, commenting: “Junior sheriff. Love it mate, well done” alongside a white heart. Other notable players to comment include Aston Villa playmaker Morgan Rogers, Ipswich Town attacker Omari Hutchinson, Chelsea winger Jadon Sancho, former Sunderland midfielder Jordan Henderson, and Jobe’s elder sibling Jude, who wrote: “Deserved brother”.

What did Jobe Bellingham say after receiving his Young Player of the Season award?

Speaking during his acceptance speech, Bellingham said: “I’m grateful to win the award. It’s been a really good season, and I’ve just tried to learn from my teammates and do the best I can.

“I’ve learnt a lot from the gaffer, he has brought great structure to our team. I've learned a lot out of possession. I’ve got a lot bigger physically which has helped as well, and I feel like I’ve progressed a lot.

“It’s great to play for a club as big as Sunderland. It’s a huge opportunity to play in front of such a huge fan base every week, they're so passionate. Hopefully we can end the season on a high now. Playing in the Premier League, especially for Sunderland, is a massive motivation. In my eyes they deserve to be in the Premier League."

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What did Kristjaan Speakman say about Jobe Bellingham and Chris Rigg after the EFL end of season awards?

Speaking after the ceremony, Speakman described the occasion as a “magnificent highlight” for both Bellingham and Rigg, as well as Sunderland as a whole. Of Rigg, he said: “To accrue a massive amount of numbers at his age, not just this season but over the previous season, is a huge accolade for him. It’s really nice when that gets respected and highlighted by the EFL. I think it just shows how well he’s done.

“For Jobe to get highlighted in the Team of the Season and to win Young Player of the Season vindicates everything he has put in behind the scenes. He’s been putting in performances week-in, week-out, and that’s now being recognised at the highest level.”

He added: “With Riggy and Jobe, you have to be involved in a really good team. All the players highlighted tonight are involved in good teams – that’s no coincidence. There’s a shout-out there to all the support staff and the coaching staff. For these two guys to be recognised in their individual categories – they’ve done really well. It’s something everyone at the club should be proud of.”

Sunderland under-21s returned to action on Monday night in the Premier League 2 against Tottenham at Eppleton CW.

Felix Scott netted two superb goals for Sunderland in the second half after a goalless opening stanza but Tottenham bagged three of their own to secure a 3-2 win at Hetton in the Premier League 2 in front of a crowd of 382.

Sunderland came into the game hoping they could take another step towards securing a spot in next season’s Premier League International Cup. A top-16 finish would also guarantee qualification for the end-of-season play-offs. The Black Cats were 12th coming into the game. Graeme Murty’s men have just one game of the regular campaign left away to Aston Villa on Friday and will need to win it to secure their goals.

Lead coach Murty named a very youthful looking under-21s side which included eight under-18 scholars, with the likes of Joe Anderson, Tom Lavery, Harrison Jones, Ben Middlemas and Oli Bainbridge all with Régis Le Bris first-team for the clash against Norwich City in the Championship on Tuesday night at Carrow Road. Rhys Walsh and Cuba Mitchell were also rested after last week’s draw against Nottingham Forest as Murty rotated his squad with both making the bench.

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Marcus Neill, playing up front, had Sunderland’s best chance of the first half after 25 minutes but saw his curling shot deflected for a corner after good work from Felix Scott. Seconds later Fin Holcroft managed to block a certain goal with a crucial block. Tottenham upped the pressure as the half wore on with a series of attacks and corners with the home side pinned back at time but looking promising on the counter.

Sunderland goalkeeper Kelechi Chibueze produced a fine save to keep the scores level after 33 minutes with the former Leicester City man acrobatically diving to deny a Tottenham header. With the opening 45 drawing to a close Jack Whittaker tested Spurs’ goalkeeper Aaron Maguire but his tame shot was easily dealt with. The opening stanza ended goalless but Spurs took the lead through captain Callum Olussesi seconds after the restart.

However, Sunderland struck back soon after with Neill setting up Scott for a low shot in the area to level the scores. The 16-year-old first-year scholar then doubled his tally for the evening with a superbly struck right-footed shot 20 yards out, with Jaydon Jones getting the assist. Whittaker nearly put Sunderland further ahead but was thwarted by an excellent Maguire save. Seconds later, Oliver Irow levelled the scores at 2-2 with a clever finish.

With just three minutes of normal time to play, Tottenham re-took the lead after substitute Yusuf Akhamrich fired the visitors ahead. As Sunderland pushed hard for an equaliser, Cuba Mitchell and Archie Lightfoot came on for Jaydon Jones and Fin Holcroft. Spurs were able to hold onto a 3-2 win.

Here, James Copley rates each of Sunderland’s players against Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League 2:

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Sunderland starlet Chris Rigg is the subject of transfer interest from the Premier League

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Sunderland midfielder Chris Rigg could be worth £100 million in “two to five years”, according to EFL pundit David Prutton.

The teenage sensation has enjoyed a breakout campaign on Wearside this season, and has subsequently found himself at the centre of widespread transfer speculation involving a whole host of high-profile suitors. To that end, reports emerged over the weekend suggesting that Tottenham Hotspur could be willing to pay as much as £38 million to lure the England youth international to North London this summer, having previously forked out around £40 million to secure a similar deal for ex-Leeds United prodigy Archie Gray last year.

And while Prutton has admitted that it is difficult to know whether Rigg is actually worth such an exorbitant fee, the ex-Nottingham Forest and Sheffield Wednesday midfielder has suggested that there is a version of events in which the Sunderland academy product is valued at considerably more than that figure in the relatively near future.

What has David Prutton said about Sunderland star Chris Rigg’s transfer future?

Speaking to Football League World, Prutton said: "Chris Rigg to Spurs for £38 million... that is a lot of money. He's still such a young kid, 17 years old, bursting through at an even younger age than that, sometimes you forget how many games he's been around for given many young players are dropping off the production line and into the first-team - they've done such a good job up in Sunderland.

"Over the course of the season broadly he's been very good, I know Regis Le Bris in recent weeks has wanted those exacting standards he's set for himself for Chris to live up to once again, which I've got no doubt he'll get to. That's sometimes par for the course when you're looking at the development of a younger player.

"£38 million... is he worth it? God knows, sometimes those types of figures can be rather arbitrarily put together, but of course they've got form have Spurs of spending a lot of money on a young player. Archie Gray, who had a season at Leeds that took them all the way to the play-off final - will Chris get something similar? We will soon see.

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"What you're paying for though is potential. You could put a hell of a lot money down on a player now for say around £40 million like we're talking for Chris, and then suddenly two to five years time he's worth £100 million - that's the speculation they're looking to turn into accumulation further down the line.

"Is he worth it? God knows, only time will tell, but Spurs being slightly transitional this season, Archie's got a lot of game-time which has been wonderful for him, but as a collective, Spurs haven't hit the heights they'd have been expecting to get to.

"Big-money moves, take Brennan Johnson for example, equals a lot of responsibility and expectation, and for a young kid who is 17, that could be a hell of a lot to deal with. So, I'm sure he'll be guided very well and firmly, but undoubtedly a real star in the making."

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The latest transfer gossip claims that Tottenham have submitted a £38million bid to Sunderland

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Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly lodged a £38million bid for Sunderland star Chris Rigg, with the North London club said to be “determined” to secure his signature this summer.

The gossip follows reports from The Sun on Sunday (page 55), stating that the 17-year-old is eager to play in the Premier League to further his development. Sunderland are believed to have set a £20 million valuation for Rigg, while West Ham have also shown interest, reportedly hoping to negotiate a deal closer to £10million. However, reports have now emerged suggesting Spurs have tabled a significant bid for the highly-rated youngster.

According to Fichajes, Tottenham Hotspur have already submitted an offer for Rigg that is nearly double Sunderland’s valuation in their determination to secure the talented youngster. Spurs have shown a willingness to invest heavily in young talent, having paid £40million to sign Durham-born Archie Gray from Leeds United last summer. Despite his age, the 19-year-old has featured more than expected this season due to injuries within Ange Postecoglou’s squad - a sign that Rigg could also be given opportunities should he make the move to North London.

What has Chris Rigg said about Sunderland recently?

However, speaking during a recent Q&A session with the club’s in-house media team, the England youth international reiterated his love and passion for Sunderland.

Question: “Hi Chris, I have a question for you. What's the best part about playing for Sunderland?”

Answer: “I think some people don't realise how much it means to put on a Sunderland shirt and give it your all for the team. I think I can say that I do every time I go on the pitch. So yeah, it's very special for me to be playing, and I'm trying to take every opportunity that comes. Yeah, I think that probably sums it up, to be honest.”

What Le Bris has said about Chris Rigg recently

Régis Le Bris recently said that Sunderland will manage Rigg carefully after he was dropped for the game against Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough.

Le Bris added that Rigg was frustrated with what has been a dip in his form from a string of outstanding performances in the opening months of the campaign, but the Sunderland head coach has assured him that this is to be expected in what is his first campaign of regular senior football.

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Le Bris took the decision to drop Rigg to the bench for the 2-1 win over Sheffield Wednesday, with the youngster making a positive impact as a substitute in the closing stages as Sunderland saw out the win. Rigg was then restored to the starting XI to face Cardiff City but was sub the following game against Preston before playing 90 minutes against Coventry.

The Sunderland head coach says the form and consistency of Dan Neil and Jobe Bellingham highlight the benefit of their added experience, with both going through a similar challenge in their first full senior campaigns. It's why Neil and Bellingham are unlikely to be rested significantly in the weeks ahead as Rigg's minutes are carefully managed.

“They are not at the same stage of their career, this is really Chris Rigg’s first season," Le Bris said. "It is a new experience for him. It is not unusual for a player like that to struggle a little bit at this stage of the season, after 35 games. We spoke together last week.

“He said he wasn’t happy about his game level, but I said, ‘It is normal – you just have to adjust to this new experience’. As a club and as a staff, we have to create the right condition for him to be able to recover, then I am sure he will find his best level again.

"With Dan and Jobe, the situation is a little bit different," Le Bris added. "They are more mature and more experienced, even if they are still young. Jobe is still 19, but this is probably his second full season and that makes a bit of a difference. I think he has shown really good qualities. He maybe wasn’t always exactly where he would want to be, but he has maintained a very good performance level.

“He has never dipped too low, and that is probably just a case of him becoming more mature. With that kind of foundation, you can go on and reach the next level. Jobe was able to do that, and I think that has been the case with Dan as well. Because of their experiences, they have learned how not to waste energy on the pitch, like you do when you are younger.

“I think for Riggy, we are still in that phase. Sometimes, he could maybe make different decisions that result in the same outcome, but with less energy. We are here to help him with that, and I hope we are able to manage all three players properly until the end of the season."

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The latest transfer gossip claims that Tottenham have submitted a £38million bid to Sunderland

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Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly lodged a £38million bid for Sunderland star Chris Rigg, with the North London club said to be “determined” to secure his signature this summer.

The gossip follows reports from The Sun on Sunday (page 55), stating that the 17-year-old is eager to play in the Premier League to further his development. Sunderland are believed to have set a £20 million valuation for Rigg, while West Ham have also shown interest, reportedly hoping to negotiate a deal closer to £10million. However, reports have now emerged suggesting Spurs have tabled a significant bid for the highly-rated youngster.

According to Fichajes, Tottenham Hotspur have already submitted an offer for Rigg that is nearly double Sunderland’s valuation in their determination to secure the talented youngster. Spurs have shown a willingness to invest heavily in young talent, having paid £40million to sign Durham-born Archie Gray from Leeds United last summer. Despite his age, the 19-year-old has featured more than expected this season due to injuries within Ange Postecoglou’s squad - a sign that Rigg could also be given opportunities should he make the move to North London.

What has Chris Rigg said about Sunderland recently?

However, speaking during a recent Q&A session with the club’s in-house media team, the England youth international reiterated his love and passion for Sunderland.

Question: “Hi Chris, I have a question for you. What's the best part about playing for Sunderland?”

Answer: “I think some people don't realise how much it means to put on a Sunderland shirt and give it your all for the team. I think I can say that I do every time I go on the pitch. So yeah, it's very special for me to be playing, and I'm trying to take every opportunity that comes. Yeah, I think that probably sums it up, to be honest.”

What Le Bris has said about Chris Rigg recently

Régis Le Bris recently said that Sunderland will manage Rigg carefully after he was dropped for the game against Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough.

Le Bris added that Rigg was frustrated with what has been a dip in his form from a string of outstanding performances in the opening months of the campaign, but the Sunderland head coach has assured him that this is to be expected in what is his first campaign of regular senior football.

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Le Bris took the decision to drop Rigg to the bench for the 2-1 win over Sheffield Wednesday, with the youngster making a positive impact as a substitute in the closing stages as Sunderland saw out the win. Rigg was then restored to the starting XI to face Cardiff City but was sub the following game against Preston before playing 90 minutes against Coventry.

The Sunderland head coach says the form and consistency of Dan Neil and Jobe Bellingham highlight the benefit of their added experience, with both going through a similar challenge in their first full senior campaigns. It's why Neil and Bellingham are unlikely to be rested significantly in the weeks ahead as Rigg's minutes are carefully managed.

“They are not at the same stage of their career, this is really Chris Rigg’s first season," Le Bris said. "It is a new experience for him. It is not unusual for a player like that to struggle a little bit at this stage of the season, after 35 games. We spoke together last week.

“He said he wasn’t happy about his game level, but I said, ‘It is normal – you just have to adjust to this new experience’. As a club and as a staff, we have to create the right condition for him to be able to recover, then I am sure he will find his best level again.

"With Dan and Jobe, the situation is a little bit different," Le Bris added. "They are more mature and more experienced, even if they are still young. Jobe is still 19, but this is probably his second full season and that makes a bit of a difference. I think he has shown really good qualities. He maybe wasn’t always exactly where he would want to be, but he has maintained a very good performance level.

“He has never dipped too low, and that is probably just a case of him becoming more mature. With that kind of foundation, you can go on and reach the next level. Jobe was able to do that, and I think that has been the case with Dan as well. Because of their experiences, they have learned how not to waste energy on the pitch, like you do when you are younger.

“I think for Riggy, we are still in that phase. Sometimes, he could maybe make different decisions that result in the same outcome, but with less energy. We are here to help him with that, and I hope we are able to manage all three players properly until the end of the season."

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All of the latest Sunderland-related news and speculation.

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Despite Sunderland not being in action this weekend due to the international break, there is still plenty of news and speculation doing the rounds on Wearside.

With that in mind, we’ve gathered up a couple of the stories that you might have missed from the past day or two. Check them out below...

Paul Robinson: Jobe Bellingham “fits mould” of Tottenham signing

Former Tottenham Hotspur and England goalkeeper Paul Robinson has claimed that Sunderland midfielder Jobe Bellingham “would fit the mould” of a typical signing for his old club. The Black Cats teenager has been in impressive form this season, and has subsequently been linked with a number of high profile suitors, including Ange Postecoglou’s Europa League hopefuls.

And speaking to Tottenham News, Robinson has admitted that he can understand why Spurs might be casting an eye over Bellingham. The pundit said: “He would fit the mould of players that Tottenham sign. You look at what they’ve done over the years, even when they signed me. Young, English, on the fringes of the England team at the time. Me, Aaron Lennon, Jermaine Jenas, Michael Carrick, those types of players.

“And you look at what’s gone on through time, even Archie Gray as well. Jobe Bellingham would fit that category of type of player that Tottenham sign. Whether or not there is a huge shift in recruitment, if this season is a failure, if there’s no Europa League this season and Spurs end up 14th in the Premier League, whether there’s a huge shift in the boardroom and a huge change in the way that Tottenham recruit players, but they’ve always bought players that have got a good sell-on value at the right age. And for that reason, yeah, absolutely, he would fit that mould. But if he became available, I don’t suspect Tottenham would be the only one looking at him.”

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Luke Molyneux hails Sunderland captain Dan Neil

Elsewhere, former Sunderland prospect Luke Molyneux has delivered his opinion on current Black Cats captain Dan Neil, claiming that the midfielder has always been a “phenomenal” talent.

The 26-year-old, who is currently on the books at Doncaster Rovers after having graduated through the academy ranks on Wearside, and while he is a little older than his former teammate, he did represent the U21s alongside a 16-year-old Neil several years ago.

Reflecting on that experience during an interview with Sunderland’s in-house media team, Molyneux said: “Dan was phenomenal. He just had this natural ability and confidence that made him stand out. To see how well he’s doing now is no surprise at all. You could tell he was going to go far.”

Molyneux also took the time to express his gratitude to Sunderland’s youth system and coaching staff for helping him during the early stages of his career. He added: “They were brilliant with me. They knew how to push you without overwhelming you, and they really helped me understand the game better. It wasn’t just about technical ability – it was about mindset, discipline, and being prepared to work harder than anyone else. I owe them a lot.”

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Sunderland forward Wilson Isidor has been in fine form this season.

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Sunderland striker Wilson Isidor “impressed” scouts from both Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace during his goal-scoring turn against Leeds United on Monday evening, according to reports.

The Frenchman notched his twelfth strike of the Championship campaign at Elland Road, but ended up on the losing side as Pascal Struijk sucker-punched Regis Le Bris’ men with a late brace. Sunderland now find themselves eight points adrift of the automatic promotion places.

Nevertheless, despite his opening goal ultimately counting for little, Isidor is said to have caught the eye of a number of Premier League representatives who were in attendance in Yorkshire.

According to an update from the Chronicle, Sunderland’s leading goal-scorer was “watched by a handful of scouts, including from Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace” on Monday. It is understood that the scouts were “taking a keen interest in a number of Sunderland's players, including Jobe Bellingham”, but were said to have been left “particularly impressed” by Isidor's display.

The 24-year-old joined Sunderland on an initial loan deal from Zenit St. Petersburg during the summer transfer window, and has wasted little time in endearing himself to supporters, reaching double figures in the goal-scoring charts and proving to be a popular and bright personality off the pitch.

Indeed, the Black Cats’ recruitment team saw enough from Isidor over the first half of the season to make his move from Russia permanent last month, wrapping up a £3 million deal and handing him a contract that is due to run until 2028.

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Speaking after he put pen to paper on his contract at the Stadium of Light, Isidor said: “I’ve been waiting for this moment since my first steps at the club, so I’m very happy. Right from the start, many moments made me believe that Sunderland is home for me and my family.

“On the plane from Zenit, I received so many messages from the fans, and then I saw the stadium and met the people for the first time. At my presentation against Burnley, I knew the fans would always support me and this has been true in my best moments and the toughest. I love playing for Sunderland, and this is just the start.”

Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman added: “Wilson’s made a really positive start to his time at Sunderland and we are delighted that he will remain with us permanently. Everyone can see that he thoroughly enjoys being part of our club and he has performed at a very high standard. In finalising this transfer, it’s also pleasing to note how motivated Wilson was to commit his future to Sunderland. This process has no doubt been supported by the warm reception he’s received from our fan base, who I’m sure will be delighted that he is now officially red and white.”

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Sunderland have been linked with a loan move for a Tottenham Hotspur striker.

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Sunderland have been given a strong indication they could be successful if they choose to revisit their reported interest in a Premier League youngster.

The Black Cats were one of a number of clubs said to be keen on a loan move for Tottenham Hotspur striker Will Lankshear during the summer after the former Arsenal and Sheffield United academy frontman was handed a new long-term deal as a reward for the progress he has made since joining Spurs in the summer of 2022.

Sunderland were given some indication of what they could land should they make a move for the youngster after he scored twice for Spurs Under-21s in last season’s Premier League 2 play-off final win against a Black Cats side containing the likes of Harrison Jones, Oliver Bainbridge and highly-rated striker Trey Ogunsuyi. Lankshear has enjoyed mixed fortunes as he progressed into the first-team setup throughout the first half of the season and an admission from Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou on Tuesday afternoon has led to further speculation over the youngster’s short-term future with the North London club.

What have Spurs said about Lankshear’s future?

As reported earlier by The Echo, speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of his side’s North London derby clash with Arsenal on Wednesday, Spurs boss Postecoglou said: “We can't afford to let anyone go at the moment. Alfie Dorrington has gone out on loan and it will be probably be similar for young Will (Lankshear) as well, because he hasn't played a lot.”

What has been said about Lankshear’s ability?

The young striker wasted little time in giving a glimpse of his undoubted potential when he came off the bench to score in a pre-season friendly win against Scottish Premiership side Hearts in July. Speaking after the game, Postecoglou said of the youngster: “Will was good. We kind of brought him in this last week. He’s looked bright in training. He worked hard. He’s had a very good year last year and it’s about rewarding him for that. It’s about coming in and making an impact. He did well and he took his goal well.”

Since that pre-season goal, Lankshear has made two Premier League appearances after coming off the bench to feature in the closing stages of a draw with Fulham and a 5-0 demolition of struggling Southampton. The youngster was handed a start in a 2-1 Europa League group stage win against Hungarian outfit Ferencvaros in October before experiencing mixed fortunes when Spurs met Turkish giants Galatasaray a month later as he bagged his first senior goal before he was shown a red card after receiving two bookings in the 3-2 defeat.

"Will [Lankshear] took his goal well, he worked hard for the team,” said Postecoglou after the loss. “Obviously he hasn't had a lot of experience at senior football so he would have learnt a lot today. The red card, it was a bit of over-enthusiasm in that moment to give away a foul, but he'll learn from that."

What has Lankshear said about his future?

As you would imagine, very little. However, the England Under-20 striker did discuss his aims for the future after putting pen-to-paper on a new five-year deal last summer. Speaking just weeks after his brace helped Spurs Under-21s claim a 3-1 win over their Sunderland counterparts in the Premier League 2 play-off final, he said: "It's a really proud moment for me and my family and everyone involved. I just have to thank them and everyone who has worked with me. I’m really determined to work so hard and try push on now and try to make a name for myself. I want to try to get into the first team and score as many goals as possible which is the best I can do as a striker."

Who else has been linked with Lankshear?

As reported by online outlet GiveMeSport during the summer, Sunderland faced competition from Championship rivals Hull City and Hollywood-backed League One club Wrexham when it was initially suggested Lankshear could head out on loan. Without naming any possible suitors, Football London claimed the young striker had ‘a lot of interest’ ahead of the January transfer window and suggested there was interest in both loan and permanent deals before the window closes for business next month.