Sunderland have initiated discussions for a permanent transfer of Lutsharel Geertruida. The Netherlands international spent last season on loan from RB Leipzig.

What happened?

Sunderland issued their retained list, confirming the exits of Dan Neil, Dennis Cirkin, Bertrand Traoré, and Niall Huggins. Geertruida impressed during his loan spell, aiding Régis Le Bris' side as Sunderland took seventh and booked Europa League football.

Why it matters for Sunderland

The club aims to protect its position through small fees or sell-on clauses for the departing players. Nine under-21s will depart, and second-year scholars Ivan Struk and George Bell also leave.

What comes next?

Professional terms have been offered to several young players, including Finn Geragusian and Liam Hunt. All other first-team players are retained as Sunderland prepare for another Premier League campaign.

StatValue
League standing7th in Premier League, 54 pts, 14W-12D-12L from 38 games
Recent form4W-1D-0L (WWWWD, most recent first)
Last resultSunderland 2-1 Chelsea (2026-05-24)