Alious**Sunderland Fend Off Brighton’s £13M Deadline Day Bid as Contract Talks Heat Up with Key Players**
Sunderland faced a tense moment on transfer deadline day as Premier League side Brighton made a bold move to sign academy sensation Tommy Watson. The Black Cats, however, stood firm, rejecting a substantial £13 million offer for the 18-year-old talent, who has already made 10 Championship appearances this season. Watson, whose current deal runs until 2026, remains a key figure in Sunderland’s long-term plans, with the club now preparing to open contract talks ahead of the summer. For now, though, their focus remains firmly on the league campaign.
**Promotion Push Takes Priority for High-Flying Sunderland**
Under new head coach Régis Le Bris, Sunderland are thriving, currently sitting 4th in the Championship after an impressive 3-2 victory over rivals Middlesbrough. With a crucial clash against Watford on the horizon, all eyes are on maintaining their promotion push. A return to the Premier League would undoubtedly influence the club’s summer plans, not just in terms of transfers but also contract negotiations.
**Contract Talks Underway with Dan Neil and Dennis Cirkin**
While Watson’s future is a priority, Sunderland are also working behind the scenes to secure new deals for two other key players—Dan Neil and Dennis Cirkin, both of whom are also out of contract in 2026. Neil, who’s been attracting interest from Premier League clubs like Everton and West Ham, and Cirkin, linked with Leeds United, are considered vital to the club’s future.
Speaking to *The Northern Echo*, Sunderland’s sporting director Kristjaan Speakman confirmed that initial discussions have already taken place with both players, though formal negotiations are likely to pick up pace in the summer.
**“We’ve had those conversations with the guys,”** said Speakman. **“There’s no question over Dennis or Dan’s commitment to Sunderland. But right now isn’t the ideal time to dive too deep into contract talks. We’ve got a lot to focus on with the season’s run-in, and we’re aiming high.”**
**Summer Set to Be Pivotal for Sunderland’s Core Squad**
The upcoming summer transfer window could be pivotal for Sunderland, especially if promotion is secured. Regardless of their league status, the club faces crucial decisions regarding several players whose contracts expire in 2026. Alongside Watson, Neil, and Cirkin, players like Blondy Nna Noukeu, Simon Moore, Luke O’Nien, Joe Anderson, Niall Huggins, Patrick Roberts, and Jewison Bennette are all entering the final years of their deals.
While some of these players may be retained, others—like Anderson and Bennette—could be moved on as part of the squad’s evolution. However, securing new deals for Watson, Neil, and Cirkin will be at the top of Sunderland’s priority list. Their futures could well hinge on whether the Black Cats secure promotion back to the Premier League.
Alious
