Sunderland defender Dennis Cirkin linked with Tottenham return as club weigh homegrown quota needs and squad depth
Tottenham Hotspur have started the season as if the club have found new life. With three wins and one loss from four games, the team sit third in the Premier League table. From a 3–0 win over Burnley to a 2–0 success at Manchester City, every result suggests the team are on the right track. Yes, the 0–1 loss to Bournemouth was disappointing, but the 3–0 win over West Ham United has raised expectations again.
This bright start has seen Brennan Johnson and Richarlison emerge as the team’s top scorers. Meanwhile, another piece of interesting news has emerged, with Tottenham expected to hold talks with Fabio Paratici about a role at the club following Daniel Levy’s departure, further fuelling discussion about the future direction.
Links with Cirkin
Meanwhile, journalist Pete O’Rourke has reported on the player in Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast. The journalist revealed that Spurs are considering signing the English left-back. The 23-year-old kick-started his career in Tottenham’s youth academy before he became the mainstay of the Sunderland squad.
O’Rourke described Cirkin as very promising, while questioning whether he could start consistently in Spurs’ starting XI. He added that the deal could help solve the club’s homegrown quota issue for the Champions League. If Cirkin arrives, he would provide cover on the left flank and strengthen overall depth. In addition, Fabrizio Romano has offered insight into how Tottenham signed French striker Randal Kolo Muani on deadline day, underlining the club’s willingness to add the right player whenever an opportunity arises.
“Yeah, it’s a bit of a surprise link this one as well, with Sunderland’s Cirkin. He came through the ranks at Tottenham before going away to Sunderland and making a name for himself.
“He’s a good player, there’s no getting away from that, but whether he’d be a regular starter if Tottenham were to move for him, I’m not too sure.
“He would provide a boost to their homegrown quota, and they have had a few issues with that homegrown quota for their Champions League squad this year. So the deal could make sense if they want to bring him in to boost that.
“He definitely would provide cover for left-back if Tottenham were to make a move for him.”
Do Tottenham need him?
The question is whether Spurs truly need a new left-back. At present, Destiny Udogie is first choice, with Djed Spence serving as back-up. Ben Davies is at an age where expecting a full season is difficult, so the need for depth feels pressing. European registration often strains the homegrown quota, and Cirkin, being club-trained, could help.
The Englishman’s qualities include strong tackling and sharp awareness of danger. His energy, positional sense and physical strength make him a rounded option. His dribbling and speed add threat in attack. He can play both left-back and centre-back, and he has already shown his quality in the Championship. However, his lack of consistent Premier League experience is a concern, and dislodging Udogie or Spence will not be easy.
Is Cirkin up to Tottenham level? That is the key question. He has certainly developed, and his athleticism and defensive solidity make him a viable option for the future. It is important to acknowledge, though, that he would likely bolster depth rather than transform the starting XI. If the club prioritise homegrown profiles in their transfer strategy, this deal could make sense. If the focus shifts to marquee signings, the discussion may drag on. Cirkin’s return could offer future stability, even if he does not immediately become a star.
