Wilkinson wants Bellion to stay at Sunderland

Sunderland manager Howard Wilkinson will offer David Bellion a new deal to make sure the French youngster stays at the Stadium of Light.

Bellion is out of contract at the end of the season and can start negotiating a move in January – but only with a foreign club, as any approach by a Barclaycard Premiership club is not permitted.

But Wilkinson is in no mood to let the pacey 19-year-old leave Wearside and insists the club are ready to table a new deal.

He told the club’s website, www.safc.com: “David and I have spoken about a new contract and the next meeting is already scheduled.

“He’s a player I want at this football club and he will be offered a new contract.”

Bellion, who signed for Sunderland on a free transfer from Cannes 16 months ago, scored the winning goal on his first league start, against Aston Villa in September.

He said: “The manager has spoken to me about my contract situation and has said that Sunderland will offer me a new deal.”

The player, the subject of speculation linking him with Manchester United recently, added: “That’s good because I’m very happy at the club and would like to stay.”