Sunderland face key contract decisions with eight players out of deal next year uncertainty surrounds one starter.

Contract calls loom as Sunderland look to build on superb Premier League start.

Sunderland’s return to the Premier League has been one of the most uplifting stories of the season, with Regis Le Bris’ side defying expectations to sit among the top four after the opening months of the campaign.

But while the club’s performances have earned plaudits on the pitch, key decisions are taking shape off it. Eight members of the current first-team squad are approaching the final year of their contracts, leaving the club’s hierarchy with some major calls to make about the future.

The Black Cats’ rise from League One to the Premier League in just three years has been built on intelligent recruitment, clear strategy, and a focus on youth. Yet, as they look to consolidate their position in the top flight, managing contract expiries has become the next significant challenge for owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and sporting director Kristjaan Speakman.

Among those in question is Bertrand Traoré, the Burkina Faso international who joined Sunderland during the summer on a one-year deal with an option for a further season.

Initially viewed as a low-risk addition, the 30-year-old has quickly established himself as a valuable member of the squad, starting the last four league games and adding experience to one of the Premier League’s youngest line-ups.

Traoré’s energy, adaptability and professionalism have made him a reliable option across the forward positions. Le Bris, who knew the winger from his time in French football, has publicly praised his influence both on and off the pitch.

“Bertrand has shown a very good mentality since joining,” Le Bris told BBC Sport. “He helps us on the pitch and in the dressing room. He’s been important in guiding some of the younger players.”

However, his age and short-term deal leave Sunderland with a dilemma. Extending his contract would offer stability and experience, but the club’s policy of investing in players with resale value could complicate negotiations.

Even if the club exercises the option to extend his stay until 2026, discussions are expected in the spring about a possible longer commitment or the prospect of cashing in while his value remains.

A growing list of expiring contracts

Traoré’s situation is not unique. Luke O’Nien, Alex Pritchard, Corry Evans, Patrick Roberts, and Jack Clarke all have deals that expire at the end of the 2025–26 season, while Dennis Cirkin and Lynden Gooch are also approaching the final stages of their current terms.

Of that group, Clarke stands out as the most high-profile case. The winger has been a key part of Sunderland’s attack, producing goals and assists that have caught the attention of several established Premier League clubs.

Talks between Clarke’s representatives and Sunderland are ongoing, though no agreement has yet been reached. The player remains focused on the current campaign, but interest from elsewhere could test Sunderland’s resolve during the January transfer window.

A source close to the club told BBC Sport: “Sunderland are keen to keep their best players, but they also have to remain disciplined. The model is built on sustainability that’s something the ownership will not compromise.”

Balancing experience and youth

The club’s success under Louis-Dreyfus has been underpinned by a clear philosophy: develop young talent, invest wisely, and maintain financial control. This model helped Sunderland escape years of instability and return to the top flight with a competitive and balanced squad.

However, Le Bris has made it clear that a degree of experience is essential if the team is to compete consistently at Premier League level. The French coach is expected to push for at least two senior players including Traoré and O’Nien to be retained beyond their current deals to maintain leadership and stability within the group.

“We have a young squad, but we also need players who understand what it takes to compete week in, week out,” said Le Bris earlier this season. “It’s about finding the right balance for the future.”

Louis-Dreyfus’ long-term vision

Since taking ownership in 2021, Kyril Louis-Dreyfus has transformed the culture at Sunderland, focusing on long-term growth rather than short-term spending. The Black Cats have become known for shrewd recruitment and strong player development, with the likes of Clarke, Roberts and Cirkin all increasing in value since joining the club.

The club’s leadership insists that stability is the priority  and that contract renewals will be handled strategically rather than emotionally. Speakman and Le Bris are expected to review all expiring contracts before the end of the year, ahead of what could be a significant January window.

Sunderland’s form has allowed them to focus on performance rather than survival, but the next few months could determine how far they can build on their current momentum.

The road ahead

For Sunderland supporters, these are positive times. The team’s attacking football, youthful enthusiasm and resilient mentality have reignited belief around the Stadium of Light.

But as success grows, so does the need for planning. Whether the club can keep its core players together while staying true to its model will be the key storyline of 2026.

The decisions on Traoré, Clarke and others could shape the next phase of Sunderland’s Premier League journey one that promises both challenge and opportunity in equal measure.