Sunderland midfielder Bali Mumba has signed his first professional contract with the club, which will run until 2021, report the club's official website. 

Mumba joined the Black Cats when he was eight-years-old and made his debut on the final day of last season against Wolves.

"I am delighted to sign this," he told the club website.

"It is what I have been dreaming about since I was a kid.

"All the hard work is beginning to pay off and my family and I are all buzzing about it."

The 17-year-old started the Black Cats' opening fixture of the League One season at the Stadium of Light against Charlton Athletic and has made a number of appearances since.

Jack Ross's side currently sit in third place in the League One table and just one point behind Peterborough United, with a game in hand.

They have won their last four games and five of their last seven, not losing since the middle of September.

Next up for Sunderland is long trip to face Plymouth Argyle on Saturday afternoon.

The Verdict 

This brilliant news for all involved in the deal.

Mumba is almost lucky that his progress has coincided with the club getting themselves back on track. Had he emerged in the last four years I would have worried his talent would have been mistreated.

But under Ross and Stewart Donald, the North East club seem to be back on the right path.

Thoughts? Let us know! 

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