Rotherham United hand a new contract to Sunderland-linked Jerry Yates - but a summer move isn't off the cards

The Rotherham United frontman is reportedly on the radar of the Black Cats and League One rivals Blackpool this summer after netting 14 times in 36 times for Swindon Town during a productive loan spell last season.

And while the Millers yesterday exercised a clause in the striker’s contract to extend his deal by twelve months, it is understood that a summer exit for the striker is not off the cards.

Yates finds himself down the pecking order at the New York Stadium with Freddie Ladapo and Michael Smith having led the line for the majority of the 2019/20 season. Given he is now 23, the Doncaster-born forward is understood to be keen on securing regular first-team football.

Indeed, Rotherham’s decision to extend his contract is thought to be a move to ensure they receive a fee for the striker should he move on this summer – rather an indication that he will be part of Paul Warne’s plans in the Championship.

As revealed by chief executive Jim Rodwell last week, Sunderland are yet to offer a contract to any player not currently on the club’s books.

Tom Flanagan remains locked in talks over an extension to his current deals – with reports suggesting the Northern Irish international is attracting interest from the second tier.

Football Insider claim that Flanagan is being watched by Coventry, Birmingham City and Wigan Athletic ahead of a potential summer move.

Speaking to the Echo in March, Flanagan indicated that he would be keen to remain on Wearside.

“I’ve got a young family who love it up here,” he said.

“We’ve both said it’s the nicest place that we’ve lived up here. We’ve enjoyed it and the people and stuff like that.

“I mean the football club... it will be something special for me to just turn my back and walk away. I can’t see that happening.

“But ultimately it’s in the club’s hands.”