Sunderland look set to play hardball over Joel Asoro’s future, knowing that the forward will not be able to leave the Stadium of Light for free, even if his contract with the club runs down.  

Asoro is heading into the final 12 months of his deal with Sunderland, with the 19-year-old yet to agree fresh terms with the Black Cats, who are preparing for League One football next season.

The forward is attracting interest from a number of clubs according to the Daily Star’s print edition (13/05, page 49), with Arsenal and Tottenham credited with an interest.

However, the Chronicle Live are reporting that Sunderland plan to be shrewd in dealing with Asoro’s future, knowing that the teenager can’t leave the Stadium of Light for free, even if his contract expires.

As long as the club offer Asoro fresh terms, they will be entitled to a compensation package, should the forward move on.

Asoro was a shining light for Sunderland in the Championship last season, making 26 appearances and scoring three goals for the Black Cats.

Despite the forward’s best efforts, Sunderland still suffered relegation in the Championship and are now preparing for life in the third tier of English football.

The Verdict  

Sunderland are really in a position of power with Asoro, even if the forward doesn’t commit his future to the club.

However, in an ideal world, the 19-year-old will stick around at the Stadium of Light, as his impact so far has been excellent.

League One is going to be tough to take for Sunderland, and it would be a big boost if Asoro snubbed interest from elsewhere by committing.

Sunderland fans… Let us know your thoughts!