Benji Kimpioka reveals the latest on his future and where his Sunderland contract talks currently stand

Benji Kimpioka says he ‘wants to stay’ at Sunderland – but is taking his time to assess his options before committing to a deal.
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The Swedish youth international burst onto the scene in the 2018/19 campaign and, after some impressive displays in the Checkatrade Trophy, was initially offered a new contract in 2019.

But he is yet to commit to the Black Cats, with his contract at the Stadium of Light having officially expired on June 30.

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And while Kimpioka is not closing the door on extending his stay with Sunderand – indeed, the forward claims he wants to stay on Wearside – he is in no rush to make a decision.

Benji Kimpioka has revealed the latest on his future as Sunderland contract talks stallBenji Kimpioka has revealed the latest on his future as Sunderland contract talks stall
Benji Kimpioka has revealed the latest on his future as Sunderland contract talks stall

The ball, for now, remains in his court.

“Right now I'm waiting a bit, talking to my agent and family to see how we should do in the window that is coming,” said Kimpioka, speaking to Swedish publication UNT.

Sunderland is a club that I love and I like everyone there, all the coaches, players and staff in the club.

“We'll see. I want to stay there, but everything is in God's hands.”

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Kimpioka also says that reports that he has turned down a contract were a ‘misunderstanding’.

“It was probably a misunderstanding there because it was not a no without us not getting into the negotiation part really.

“The contract was there and I did not say no but wanted to wait and look at it.

“Me, my family and my agent are looking at what is best for me and the family.”

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Speaking to the Echo in June, Kimpioka’s agent Martin Klette explained how a ‘fair financial offer’ coupled with promises of first-team involvement would see the 20-year-old view Sunderland's offer more favourably.

"If Benjamin would become a first team squad player and receive a fair financial offer the chances for him staying at the club are big," Klette said.

Asked whether there was interest from other clubs, Klette added: "I don't want to comment on that. I very seldom comment on those type of things in the media as it is something between the parties."