Sunderland defender Dennis Cirkin is expected to be the subject of bids from a number of Premier League clubs this summer, according to journalist Graeme Bailey.
The 22-year-old has managed to nail down a starting berth under Regis Le Bris this season after spending the majority of the last campaign out with a number of injuries. Although the left-back dropped to the bench for the recent win over Sheffield Wednesday, he has been an almost ever-present, helping the Black Cats launch a bid for promotion to the Premier League.
Cirkin joined the Wearsiders in the summer of 2021 from Tottenham Hotspur, playing a starring role in the team that earned promotion from League One. Despite last season’s mishaps, he has earned himself a reputation as one of the best full-backs in the EFL.
Former Club Amongst Host Of Admirers
Sunderland have managed to build a team over the last few years that is capable of playing at the top end of the Championship. As a result, many clubs in the top tier have started to take note of the talent at their disposal. Should they fail to earn promotion, it is expected that their could be a raid at the Stadium of the Light in the summer, especially for midfield duo Chris Rigg and Jobe Bellingham.
It appears as if Cirkin has now been added to that list, with former club Spurs amongst the teams keeping an eye on his situation. Speaking to Sunderland News, Graeme Bailey addressed the situation:
“Keep a close eye on Cirkin. I am told a lot of Premier League clubs have been doing work on him. Chelsea, Tottenham, Crystal Palace, West Ham, Everton and Leeds – he is an outstanding prospect.”
Leeds are long-term admirers of the former England youth international. It was rumoured last year that they were keen to bring the player to Elland Road in January but were immediately rebuffed in their efforts.
Writer’s View
Sunderland’s form this season has caught many by surprise. They weren’t expected to be challenging for a top six finish, let alone an automatic promotion spot. Those hopes have slowly faded in recent weeks but there now appears to be a lot riding on a place in the Premier League. If they can return to the top tier for the first time since 2017, they stand a chance of keeping hold of their best talent. However, failure to do so may mean that the likes of Bellingham, Rigg and Cirkin move on to pastures new.
