Sunderland aren’t shy when it comes to tabling new contract offers, and Kristjaan Speakman may have his next lined up.
There’s a lot to like and laud about Sunderland right now. From their transfer business, to their recruitment, and their current form under Regis Le Bris, everything seems to be moving in the right direction.
Another facet of Sunderland’s current regime is the planning when it comes to player contracts.
Sunderland rarely find themselves worrying about a key player coming to the end of their contract, and in the case of Jack Clarke, the club proved that they cash in when the time is right.
Next summer, the Black Cats have just Aaron Connolly and Niall Huggins out of contract at the Stadium of Light. But the summer of 2026 could pose some difficulties for the club.
Though expect Kristjaan Speakman to be hard at work on forging new deals for those deserving, having agreed early, extended deals for names like Jobe Bellingham and Aji Alese in the past 12 months.
Sunderland must agree new contract for Dennis Cirkin
One first-team player who’s out of contract in 2026 is Dennis Cirkin; the former Spurs left-back has nailed down his spot in the starting XI this season, having missed large parts of last season.
The 22-year-old has played every minute of Sunderland’s Championship campaign so far, with fans impressed by Cirkin’s return to the side.
It’s been a seamless return too, with Cirkin currently leading the team for tackles-per-game (3.8), interceptions-per-game (2.3), coming second to only Romaine Mundle for dribbles completed-per-game (1.3).
Cirkin’s stats paint a picture of a player, a typical full-back, who does his job without trouble. Only when he’s absent, as was the case last season, does his importance to the side become so clear.
Sunderland still have time to finalise new Dennis Cirkin contract
Cirkin has had Premier League interest since his 2021 arrival at Sunderland with Brentford linked at the start of last season.
His injury-laden 2023/24 saw that interest die off. But should his fine form continue this season then, like with so many of his teammates, Cirkin could come into the transfer spotlight once again.
Out of contract in a couple of years, Sunderland still have some wiggle room. But the club need to show yet more planning and organisation skills by avoiding a situation wherein Cirkin is in the last year of his contract, and in demand.
We should hope to see a new deal at some point this season.