The Sweden international has been at Sunderland since 2011, but is out of contract in the summer.
Sunderland’s Sebastian Larsson in action
With Sunderland still adapting their transfer policy to gear up for a promotion charge from the Championship at the first attempt, it’s very possible that they’ll do so without the services of midfielder Sebastian Larsson.
The 31-year-old Sweden international is out of contract in a few weeks, as reported by Chronicle Live, and has already received offers from abroad, though it appears the player’s preference is to stay in England.
Burnley’s Joey Barton in action with Sunderland’s Sebastian Larsson
Whether that’s with Sunderland or not remains to be seen, but if Larsson is to depart the Stadium of Light this summer, it won’t exactly be a colossal loss for the Black Cats, as they could probably sign someone who can offer more.
In his whole career, Larsson has always seemed the kind of player that may be brilliant in the Championship and perform to an average standard in the Premier League, but will go no further – which is probably why Arsenal were happy to let him go as a youngster.
Sunderland’s Sebastian Larsson in action with Tottenham’s Victor Wanyama
However, while it may seem a good idea to keep him around, signs of clear decline were evident this season with Larsson in his 23 appearances in all competitions for the first team, meaning it may be best for both parties to break ties.
Sunderland will miss his set-piece taking ability – which to Larsson’s credit, is excellent – but that’ll be about it, as this season has shown that Larsson is very much replaceable going by his form, and in the long run, the Black Cats can do better.
Sunderland’s Sebastian Larsson looks dejected
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