Benji Kimpioka's future no closer to being resolved as Sunderland contract nears end

The Swedish youth international is currently set to leave the club after his current contract expires at the end of this month.

Kimpioka was initially offered an extension in 2019 following his first steps into senior football, impressing in a number of EFL Trophy and League One appearances.

Kimpioka's stance was that there would be no extension unless there were guarantees that he would be considered a first-team squad player.

Kimpioka's agent, Martin Klette, has said that this remains the case.

Klette says there is a 'very big' chance Kimpioka would stay if such a guarantee was offered alongside a 'fair' financial offer.

Asked if there was a contract offer on the table for the 20-year-old, Klette said: "I don't know, to be honest.

"We have never negotiated any financial figures with Sunderland.

"In February 2019 I pointed out that the first step for us was to know if Benjamin was considered good enough to be a first team squad player. Since then there has been no real discussions about a new contract.

"It has always been a goal for Benjamin to become a first-team player for Sunderland but it is not his or my decision to decide if he is considered good enough for that. That is always the decision of the club."

Kimpioka's playing time declined in the early stages of this season, but he was given an opportunity to impress by Phil Parkinson.

That culminated in the Swede scoring a crucial equaliser against Coventry City, but he has made no senior appearances since November.

"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."

Jim Rodwell and Phil Parkinson have said they will start stepping up the renewal process with those out of contract.

Klette is clear that a place in the first-team squad is essential if Kimpioka was to sign.