Sunderland have had an excellent start to the season, but they will be making a huge mistake if they let Bryan Oviedo leave the club this week.

What’s the story?

According to popular Sunderland fan site Roker Report, Oviedo could still leave Wearside before Friday’s deadline.

Their report discuss the exit links for Didier Ndong & Papy Djilobodji, who fans would be delighted to see the back of, but also touches on the futures of Oviedo and Lee Cattermole.

“The financial situation at the club means that whilst we may want to hang on to both players, should good offers come along for either or both we may be forced into selling them,” says the report.

Oviedo would fetch a fairly decent fee if he does move on, but the Costa Rican international has game-changing ability that you don’t often find in League One, and it would be the first mistake of the Stuart Donald and Jack Ross era to sell him.

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Why not sell him?

Ross’ Black Cats have been superb so far this season, particularly in the last week, where they have fought from behind twice to grab all three points.

While Reece James was excellent at left back in the win at Gillingham, it is no coincidence that the comeback against Wimbledon came after the youngster was replaced by Oviedo.

The 28 year-old, who has 46 caps for Costa Rica, can play anywhere down that left flank, and his delivery into the box is about as good as it gets. With Chris Maguire starting the season in fine form, Josh Maja will be absolutely loving playing in a side with both Oviedo and Maguire whipping balls into the box.

Oviedo also has experience in big games, such as Everton’s 1-0 win at Manchester United when he scored the game’s only goal back in 2013, and that will come in handy as the season drags on and the matches become more important for the promotion chase.

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Ross and Donald have done an excellent job revamping the squad with young, hungry players, but having some experienced, proven players there to balance it out is equally important. It would be Ross’ first and biggest mistake so far to let Oviedo leave this summer.

So, Sunderland fans, do you think you can afford to let Oviedo leave? How much is he worth? Let us know your thoughts and vote in the poll below…