Sunderland striker Josh Maja is set to start talks over a new deal at the Stadium of Light, but only once the loan window has closed.

Chronicle Live is reporting that the League One side are yet to re-open talks with the young forward who has started off the new season in blistering form, scoring two goals in the club's first two games.

Maja is in the last year of his current deal and was offered a new long-term deal back in April prior to the sale of the club.

At that point, there was no conclusion and once the loan window closes on August 31, talks should resume to tie down the future of the 19-year-old.

The priority this summer has been to negotiate player exits and bring in new recruits and Maja’s new deal has been a victim of the club’s overhaul of playing staff.

Speaking to Chronicle Live, Ross said:“My job is to get the best out of Josh on the pitch and he’s been very receptive from that point of view.

“Beyond that, I think it [Maja’s contract] is something the club will address in the fullness of time.

“While the window is still open, I think we’ve still got issues we need to address in terms of moving some players on.”

The Verdict

Why long it off until the loan window closes? There can’t be another influx of players imminent.

Maja has shown his potential and Sunderland should do what they can now to tie the striker down.

You want to make a young player feel wanted and important and the fact the original contract was offered in April - four months ago - shows that of course, the club’s mind is elsewhere.

Maja has been at the club during the hard times and is a product of their academy and will now get to chance to become a vital part of Ross’ side.

Get the contract signed so the future of the highly-rated 19-year-old is no longer a question and he can put all his efforts into performing on the pitch.