Sunderland manager Jack Ross is hoping the club can tie down young striker Josh Maja to a new deal, with the forward among a host of players who see their Black Cats contract expire in the summer.

Maja has been in superb form the club since being given his chance this term in League One, banging in five goals and helping his club to get right in the mix in terms of hunting for promotion back to the Championship.

And his manager Jack Ross has spoken to the Northern Echo to confirm how impressed he has been with Maja and his hopes of tying him down to a new deal.

"He’s one of those they’re very keen to ensure he commits his future to the club. We want him to do that." Ross said.

“We’re probably getting very close to the stage where we’ll start that conversation properly and it’s blatantly obvious why we would want to do that because he’s an asset to us on the playing side and financially he will be an asset because he’s attractive to other clubs.

Ross also commented on the impact and responsibilty Maja has had on his shoulders so far this season, and commented on how impressed he has been with his attitude and leading of the line despite not having a wealth of experience around him.

"These are things we’re working hard on in terms of the analysis we do - because he has certain attributes that are good but if teams become used to them you have to strengthen your hand with other parts of the game as well. We’ll keep working on them." added Ross.

Maja will hope to continue playing an important role in the Sunderland squad this season and will no doubt be keen to add to his five goals so far.

Sunderland fans, what do you think? How good can Maja be? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!