Sunderland are set to lose central defender Jack Baldwin this summer after declining to offer him a new contract.

With the coronavirus pandemic causing English football to come to a standstill since March, the Black Cats were left in limbo over their prospects of gaining a play-off place in League One. However, a decision made by the English Football League resulted in them missing out as a points-per-game system was utilised, moving them down to eighth in the final table.

Failure to gain promotion for the second year running means the Wearside club will now have to prepare for a third successive season in England's third tier and they could see a whole host players leave this summer.

A total of 11 players could now be set to leave the club with defender Baldwin one of the bigger names on that list.

The Northern Echo reported that the centre-back will not be offered a new deal and will therefore be free to discuss terms with a new club from July 1.

Chris Maguire, Tom Flanagan and Jon McLaughlin are also set for exits, with the latter being heavily linked with a move to Championship side Blackburn Rovers.

Once labelled a 'young Alan Hansen' by former Hartlepool manager Neale Cooper, Baldwin has hardly set the world alight during his time at the Stadium of Light, spending time out on loan this season with League Two side Salford City.

Failing to make a single appearance for the Black Cats in League One, his exit would seem logical on the face of it. However, with so much uncertainty at the club, Sunderland will need to think carefully about letting players go and ensuring that they have a sizeable squad with adequate quality next season.

Do you think Sunderland should keep hold of Jack Baldwin past this summer? Let us know in the comments section below...