Bellion turns down new Sunderland deal

Sunderland winger David Bellion has turned down the offer of a new deal to stay at the Stadium of Light and is therefore in a position to start looking for a new club on January 1.

The speedy Frenchman signed on a free transfer from FC Cannes 18 months ago and has been linked with a possible move to Manchester United.

“David Bellion had a contract offer that has been negotiated between him and his agent and they have chosen not to accept at the moment,” said Sunderland manager Howard Wilkinson.

“As far as I am concerned David Bellion’s immediate future until the end of the season is at Sunderland where we have quite an interesting few months ahead of us.”