Sunderland have rewarded Patrick van Aanholt for his fine form this season by giving the defender a new long term contract.
The 25-year-old has signed a four-year deal, which means he will stay on Wearside until 2020.
Extended stay
Van Aanholt has made 69 appearances for the club, scoring five goals, since joining from Chelsea back in 2014.
The Netherlands international became a fan favourite at Sunderland this season after some impressive individual displays, especially around Christmas time.
Praise from Allardyce
Sam Allardyce has given his take on the decision to offer van Aanholt a new deal. The Black Cats boss stated van Aanholt was a 'outstanding performer' and praised the 'vital' goals that the Dutchman had scored this season.
He went on to say it is 'fantastic' that the club could tie down such a 'talented' footballer.
The announcement is likely to mean Allardyce will not pursue a left back in this summer's transfer window.
New additions
As well as securing down star players, Allardyce is planning a big spending spree this summer.
As previously mentioned, van Aanholt had a solid season and played a big part in Sunderland's escape from relegation. The left back chipped in with four goals in the league this season. His ability to both attack and defend make him a shoo-in for the full-back position in the Sunderland starting XI. However, other positions on the pitch are not so easy to fill.
Allardyce is reported to be after a new central midfielder and a new striker. Jack Rodwell may be on his way out of Wearside and Yann M'Vila has not yet had his loan move switched to a permanent one. Diafra Sakho has been heavily linked with the club, meaning Dame N'Doye is unlikely to extend his short loan spell at the club.
A new right back is also needed after DeAndre Yedlin returned to Tottenham Hotspur.