Kevin Phillips believes that losing Charlie Wyke during this summer transfer window will be a massive blow for Sunderland and Lee Johnson.

The Lowdown: Wyke set to depart

The 28-year-old's contract at the Stadium of Light is soon set to run out, making him a free agent (Transfermarkt).

Celtic, in particular, are said to be interested in capturing his services as result.

The Latest: Phillips unhappy with development

Speaking to Football Insider, Phillips has shared his disappointment at the reports that Wyke could be closing in on a departure from Sunderland. He said:

"It is a massive blow.

"I have friends in the north east who watch a lot of Sunderland and they all have their own opinion about Charlie, good or bad.

"The stats do not lie though. He scored 30 goals last season and if you take those goals out of the side they would not have even been in the play-offs.

"To lose him on a free is an undoubted blow. Why did they let it happen? Was it the player or the club that let his contract run down?

"It is a huge loss because there are not many strikers out there who will come to Sunderland and score 30 goals next season. They are few and far between.

"It is not ideal for Lee Johnson. He has now got a big job trying to replace him before they start of the season."

The Verdict: Bizarre situation

While it remains unclear as to who is behind Wyke's exit, it seems bizarre that Sunderland would let him leave the club after the season he has just enjoyed. In 2020/21, he scored 30 goals in 53 games, including 26 in League One - only Peterborough's Jonson Clarke-Harris managed more in the division (BBC).

However, while he has proven to be prolific in front of goal, many Sunderland fans appear eager to see him depart. Seeing him leave on a free transfer will be disappointing, as they could likely have reaped a considerable fee for him. In the end, though, it seems he will not be overly missed at the Stadium of Light, at least not initially.

In other news, Sunderland are close to agreeing a new deal for this star.