Callum Styles, who is on loan from Sunderland, is expected to return to Barnsley, with the Black Cats searching for alternative targets rather than exercising their option to buy him, according to Alan Nixon.
Sunderland appeared to have done a good deal in January when they announced the acquisition of Hungary international Styles on an initial loan from Barnsley. The two clubs did, however, agree on a permanent transfer option.
The 24-year-old has previously played well at Championship level, but in his half-season at the Stadium of Light, he has struggled to make an impact in a failing team. Styles has appeared in 12 league games and contributed one assist.
As a result, doubts have been raised about what awaits him.
His financing included a buy option. However, reporter Alan Nixon has stated on his Patreon page that Sunderland may be considering alternative possibilities before triggering the clause to sign Styles permanently. It casts doubt on his tenure and suggests he’ll return to Barnsley.
He was signed by former manager Michael Beale, and a new appointment will be made this summer.
Return to Barnsley…
In light of this latest revelation, Styles’ immediate future appears to be uncertain.
He hasn’t caught the attention he was hoping for in Sunderland, and a prolonged stay there appears to be in jeopardy. If they choose not to exercise their option, he will return to Barnsley.
Styles, a former Millwall loanee, has one year remaining on his contract with Oakwell. That might mean that the Tykes opt to cash in rather than risk losing him for free next summer, so the former Bury player could be on his way somewhere.
The 20-time Hungary international has often demonstrated his ability to be a significant player at the Championship level. His versatility makes him a valuable asset, thus it would be surprising if he stayed with Barnsley.
The summer in Sunderland
While Styles may not be part of the future plans on Wearside, there is no doubt that the Championship club will have a busy summer as they prepare for a new chapter.
The 2023/24 season was fraught with poor judgments, therefore Sunderland’s next managerial appointment and fresh recruits must be spot on.
Potential targets will be considered, but the entrance of the next boss will truly set things in motion.
Then they can develop more specific recruitment strategies and begin working on bringing in targets. The sooner that is completed, the more Sunderland can benefit from pre-season in preparation for a campaign in which they will be under pressure to improve.
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