Sunderland have initiated contract discussions with winger Romaine Mundle, signalling their intent to secure the future of one of their brightest talents following the club’s promotion to the Premier League. The 22-year-old, who played a pivotal role in the Black Cats’ Championship play-off triumph in May 2025, has attracted interest from multiple Premier League clubs as well as European sides such as PSV Eindhoven and Club Brugge. With Mundle’s current deal set to expire in June 2028, Sunderland are moving proactively to reward his contributions and fend off potential suitors.
A Breakout Star on Wearside
Romaine Mundle’s journey to becoming a key figure for Sunderland has been marked by rapid progress. After joining from Standard Liège in February 2024 for an undisclosed fee, the former Tottenham Hotspur academy product initially served as a replacement for Alex Pritchard. Despite a challenging start, including two injury setbacks, Mundle’s pace, flair, and ability to deliver in crucial moments made him a standout performer during the 2024-25 Championship season. He recorded five goals and several assists in 22 appearances, with his dynamic displays on the wing proving vital in Sunderland’s play-off surge, culminating in a dramatic 2-1 victory over Sheffield United at Wembley.
Sky Sports News reporter Keith Downie reported that Sunderland were planning to open talks with Mundle over a revised contract, a move driven by his growing reputation and the club’s desire to build around their young stars. Despite missing part of the campaign due to a hamstring injury, Mundle’s impact was undeniable, with his sharp turns, clever movement, and decisive finishes earning praise from fans and pundits alike. His start in the play-off final underscored his importance to manager Régis Le Bris’ attacking setup.
🚨 Sunderland plan to open talks with Romaine Mundle over a new contract after promotion to the Premier League.
— Keith Downie (@SkySports_Keith) May 28, 2025
⚪️ The 22-year-old has been a star performer this season despite injury half-way through the campaign.
🔴 Premier League clubs are keeping tabs of his progress, so… pic.twitter.com/I4Yk1pHlSf
Why the Urgency?
With three years remaining on his current contract, Sunderland’s decision to prioritize Mundle’s extension is both a reward for his performances and a strategic move to protect their asset. Interest from Premier League clubs and European sides has intensified, with PSV and Club Brugge reportedly monitoring the winger’s progress. Sunderland’s sporting director, Kristjaan Speakman, has emphasized the club’s proactive approach to contract management, noting that rewarding players like Mundle, who have shown significant progress, is a priority even with long-term deals in place.
The Black Cats’ return to the Premier League after an eight-year absence has raised the stakes. Promotion, secured through a last-gasp Dan Ballard header in the play-off semi-final against Coventry City and the Wembley win, has given Sunderland increased financial muscle and a platform to retain their core squad. However, with players like Dan Neil and Dennis Cirkin also entering the final year of their contracts, and Jobe Bellingham’s £27 million move to Borussia Dortmund already confirmed, securing Mundle’s future is seen as critical to maintaining squad stability.
Mundle’s versatility—he can play on either flank or as a No. 10—adds to his value, making him a cornerstone of Le Bris’ plans for the 2025-26 Premier League campaign. His ability to cut in, create chances, and contribute defensively aligns perfectly with Sunderland’s high-energy, attacking style. A new deal would not only reflect his growing importance but also send a message to rivals that Sunderland are not a club to be raided easily.
The Bigger Picture: Sunderland’s Contract Strategy
Sunderland’s approach to Mundle’s contract is part of a broader strategy to lock down key players as they prepare for the Premier League. Alongside Mundle, the club are prioritizing new deals for captain Dan Neil and defender Dennis Cirkin, both of whom are out of contract in 2026 and have attracted interest from top-tier clubs, including Serie A side AS Roma in Neil’s case. Other players like Patrick Roberts, Luke O’Nien, and Niall Huggins, also in the final year of their deals, have extension options, but Sunderland are keen to reward their contributions with improved terms
The club’s proactive stance is a departure from past mismanagement, where players like Jon McLoughlin and Josh Maja were lost due to expiring contracts. Speakman’s focus on long-term planning has seen players like Anthony Patterson, Dan Ballard, and Eliezer Mayenda secured until 2028, while young talents like Chris Rigg are also in line for new deals. Mundle, alongside Mayenda, is viewed as a player with significant sell-on potential, but Sunderland’s immediate goal is to ensure he remains a central figure in their Premier League return.
Fan Sentiment and What’s Next
Sunderland fans have warmly embraced Mundle, with many seeing him as a symbol of the club’s resurgence. Posts on X reflect excitement about his potential, with one supporter noting, “Mundle’s the kind of player who gets you off your seat—new deal is a no-brainer.” However, some caution remains, with fans urging the club to act swiftly to avoid losing him to bigger clubs, as seen with Bellingham’s departure.
Talks with Mundle are expected to progress in the coming weeks, with Sunderland’s pre-season preparations providing a window to finalize negotiations. The club’s recent signings, including a £20 million permanent deal for Roma midfielder Enzo Le Fée and a £4.25 million bid for Montpellier’s Modibo Sagnan, indicate an ambitious transfer strategy, but retaining homegrown and emerging talents like Mundle is equally crucial.
As Sunderland gear up for their Premier League opener against West Ham United, securing Mundle’s future would be a significant coup. His flair, work rate, and potential make him a player to build around, and a new contract would signal the Black Cats’ intent to compete at the top level. For Mundle, the opportunity to shine in the Premier League with a club on the rise could be the perfect platform to take his career to new heights.
