contract

QPR concern not over despite £1m-a-year Stoke City deal: View

13/06/2024 Raymond 0

With two years remaining on his contract, securing him with QPR until the end of the 2025/26 season, it’s suggested that the club would demand a fee of £5-7 million for Jake Clarke-Salter’s services this summer. Despite Stoke City’s recent acquisition of center-back Ben Gibson, QPR should still be concerned about the Potters’ interest in Clarke-Salter.

Given the rigors of a full season, it would be a significant challenge for any club to manage with just three center-backs. Stoke often plays with two center-backs, leaving them with only one player to cover both positions. Considering the likelihood of injuries and suspensions throughout the season, this situation would put them at a high risk of selection issues. Hence, it would be prudent for the club to bring in another central defender to alleviate the pressure on their current options, providing more flexibility for rotation and reducing the risk of unwanted absences.

Sunderland: Crystal Palace transfer update on Jobe Bellingham revealed

05/06/2024 Raymond 0

Crystal Palace does not consider Sunderland’s attacking midfielder Jobe Bellingham a crucial part of their summer recruitment plans, despite showing interest in him, according to Give Me Sport. The 18-year-old has garnered significant attention recently due to his impressive performances in the Championship at such a young age.

Bellingham, who had a limited role at Birmingham City before transferring to Sunderland, has enjoyed considerable playing time during the 2023/24 season. Starting regularly, the England youth international has demonstrated his potential, suggesting that Sunderland could earn a substantial profit if they decide to sell him in the future. While Crystal Palace is interested in Bellingham, Give Me Sport reports that the club does not view him as essential to their summer plans.

Brentford has also shown interest in Bellingham but shares concerns about whether he can consistently perform at the Premier League level. This hesitation from both clubs could benefit Sunderland, who are keen to retain the promising young talent. Remaining at the Stadium of Light appears to be a wiser choice for Bellingham at this stage of his career.

Sunderland may be in line for player boost as Black Cats wait on £30m Celtic decision

29/05/2024 Raymond 0

Sunderland may have received a significant potential boost regarding Dan Neil’s future at the club. The academy product has had another stellar season in the Championship, scoring four goals and assisting five in 42 league matches. Neil is contracted with Sunderland until the summer of 2026, but the club might consider selling him this summer, along with other talents like Anthony Patterson and Jack Clarke.

Recently promoted Southampton has shown interest in both Clarke and Neil after their victory over Leeds United in the Championship play-off final. The Saints have had their eye on Clarke for a while, and Russell Martin is reportedly a strong admirer of Neil. Despite this, Sunderland may have received a positive development regarding Neil’s future at the Stadium of Light. The question remains: Can Sunderland retain Dan Neil this summer?

There is no doubt about Neil’s quality and importance to Sunderland, as he continues to improve each season. Interest in the 22-year-old midfielder is inevitable, but Sunderland faces a difficult decision on whether to sell or keep him this summer. From the perspective of owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, selling Neil could bring in a substantial transfer fee. With his contract expiring in a couple of years, this summer might be the optimal time to sell.