Michael Spellman lands League Two move after Sunderland exit

Spellman was one of 11 academy players released by Sunderland this summer which included the likes of Ben Creamer, Harry Gardiner, Thomas Chiabi and captain Ellis Taylor, bringing an end to his two-year stay at the Academy of Light. 

Spellman made 10 appearances for Graeme Murty's academy side on their way to the Premier League 2 play-off final against Tottenham Hotspur, scoring three times. The 21-year-old, a former Newcastle United schooldboy, was part of the highly-rated Park View academy in Chester-le-Street, having also featured for Chester-le-Street United before an extensive trial period with Sunderland in 2022 which led to his permanent signing. 

SUBSCRIBER EXCLUSIVE: Win a 2024/25 Sunderland home shirt

The winger made his senior debut for Sunderland in the first round of the League Cup against Sheffield Wednesday in 2022, before spending time on loan with non-league side Blyth Spartans, and was an unused substitute in last season's first round tie with Crewe Alexandra. 

Spellman is believed to have had interest from the North East's non-league scene this summer but will, instead, be plying his trade in the Football League next season after completing a permanent move to Rodney Parade with Newport.

“I’m delighted to get the deal over the line,” said Spellman. 

“I can’t wait to get started. The club is on the rise and it wants to play good football which is what I’m all about.  

“I’m really excited to play in front of the fans.”

Meanwhile, Sunderland have confirmed academy defender Tom Lavery has agreed a new deal at the Academy of Light until 2026 while 17-year-old midfielder Chris Rigg is expected to agree a three-year professional contract with the club after making a breakthrough into the senior squad last season. 

Rigg was keen to hold out for talks with the club's new head coach, Régis Le Bris, before making a decision with news of Rigg's long-term future now set to be confirmed at the Stadium of Light.