Lynden Gooch breaks his silence on Sunderland contract talks as Stewart Donald issues 'positive' update

The American, who turns 23 on Monday, has admitted he is keen to repay the club after they showed faith in him as a youngster.

And owner Stewart Donald has hinted that 'positive' news on both Gooch and teammate Josh Maja should be announced soon.

READ: Jack Ross on his selection process that almost led to midfielder snub

The pair have been standout performers for the Black Cats this season and, with their respective deals set to expire in the summer, the club are keen to tie them down to new and improved deals.

Such an agreement seems to be nearing for Gooch after the attacking midfielder broke his silence on the contract talks.

Speaking to the Sam's Army podcast, the Sunderland ace said: "Yeah, it’s close. It’s obviously in the hands of my team and the club.

"I’ve said for a long time that this club means a lot to me and if I can try and get the club back to the good times, then I’ll do so.

"They’ve gave me a chance to be a professional footballer and gave me everything in life, if I can repay that a little bit, help get the club back to the Championship and hopefully the Premier League then I want to do so and be a big part of this club going forward."

And an agreement for Maja - who has reportedly drawn admirers from the Premier League and Championship after a goal-laden start to the season - could also be close too.

MORE: The mood inside the camp as Sunderland prepare for their biggest test yet

Jack Ross said earlier this week that he remained confident the striker would sign, and Donald has now teased some good news on his Twitter account.

In a reply to a supporter asking about the striker's future, the Sunderland chief said: "Official update soon *winky face*.

"It is looking positive."