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Tottenham Hotspur have expressed renewed interest in Sunderland’s left-back Dennis Cirkin as they prepare for the 2025–26 campaign. Cirkin, who was instrumental in Sunderland’s promotion to the Premier League, is entering the final year of his contract, leaving his future at the Stadium of Light uncertain. The 23-year-old defender, who emerged from Tottenham’s academy before joining Sunderland in 2021, is being monitored by Spurs’ new head coach Thomas Frank. The club is reportedly considering several former academy players, including Kyle Walker-Peters, as part of their squad planning.
Alasdair Gold said: “Spurs have looked at the past in bringing back 23-year-old left-back Dennis Cirkin, who has impressed at Sunderland.” He further noted that while Spurs previously held a buy-back clause on Cirkin, that clause expired last year. However, Tottenham do still hold a sell-on percentage, meaning any fee paid would be reduced by the amount owed to them, potentially making a deal financially appealing.
Despite no formal offer being made, Sunderland are aware of the growing interest in Cirkin. The club, having secured Premier League football, is expected to stand firm in negotiations unless a deal aligns with their valuation, especially given Cirkin’s significant contribution to their promotion success.
Kristjaan Speakman said: “We do a contract review right across the group at the end of every season. I think we’re in a strong position with the majority of the group this time around, especially with a lot of the players who have performed at a really high level. That’s part of trying to build the squad for next season. We don’t have anyone out of contract this summer and so that means there isn’t an immediate issue for us, we have a little bit of time to reflect. As I always say, it’s got to be the right opportunity for the players and for us.”
Sunderland’s sporting director, Kristjaan Speakman, confirmed that contract discussions with Cirkin are underway. The club had paused initial talks to focus on their promotion campaign, but with their Premier League status now secured, securing the futures of key players, including Cirkin, is a top priority. Speakman emphasized that the situation is under control and progressing calmly, with the club aiming to tie down their key assets to new terms ahead of the summer transfer window.
The potential return of Cirkin to Tottenham would not only bolster their defensive options but also align with their strategy of integrating academy graduates into the first team. As the summer transfer window approaches, both clubs will likely continue discussions to determine Cirkin’s future.
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