Sunderland striker Harry Gardiner is set to commit his future to the club.
The Sunderland Echo have reported that the 19-year-old was due at the Academy of Light today (June 20) to put pen to paper on a new deal.
Gardiner was one of two players who the club confirmed had been offered a new contract in this summer’s retained list and the report claims he has accepted the Black Cats’ proposal.
The teenager enjoyed an impressive breakout season for Sunderland’s U21 side last season, taking advantage of an injury to Max Thompson which allowed him to lead the line.
Gardiner bagged seven goals in only 12 matches in the Premier League 2 Division 2 and was also named the league’s Player of the Month in February.
Michael Spellman was the second youngster to be offered a new deal by the Wearside club, however there is no indication as to whether he will extend his stay at the Stadium of Light.
Gardiner would become the fifth player to sign a new deal for Sunderland over the past few months – joining Anthony Patterson, Dennis Cirkin, Trai Hume and Dan Neil.
Harry Gardiner deal is example of Sunderland owner’s youth focus
It is a breath of fresh air for Sunderland fans to see their latest owners target keeping hold of their young stars as a main priority.
The Black Cats have endured self sabotage on a number of occasions in the past, with previous owners allowing the likes of Bali Mumba, Joel Asoro and Josh Maja to leave with limited questions asked.
While Harry Gardiner is fairly unknown among the fan base, Kyril Louis-Dreyfus is clearly eager to build a future for the club and that starts with the academy.
Similarly, Sunderland are desperate to keep hold of Chris Rigg – a player who arguably would have already been shipped off to Newcastle United in recent years.
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