Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray has conceded he may be unable to hold onto Ross Stewart.
The forward is being linked with a move away from the Stadium of Light club this summer.
The 26-year-old Scotland International is a target for Premier League new boys Luton Town.
Speaking to the Northern Echo this week, boss Mowbray said: "In an ideal world Ross signs a new contract and the team looks so much stronger.
"If it can't be done for whatever reason, I understand that.
"As I keep saying to them, I was a footballer for over 20 years from leaving school.
"I've been there, seen it and know what it's like, especially when you get to a certain age when you have a family and responsibilities.
"If you have opportunities then I understand where Ross is sitting.
"Let's wait and see how it unfolds over the next few months."