Exclusive: Tottenham interested in bringing back former academy star who Jose Mourinho called ‘quality’
Tottenham Hotspur are closely monitoring Sunderland full-back Dennis Cirkin as they evaluate potential reinforcements for their squad.
The 22-year-old defender, who emerged from Tottenham’s academy, left North London in 2021 without making a senior appearance but has since developed into one of the most promising left-backs in the Championship.
Since joining Sunderland, he has played a vital role in their promotion push, accumulating 108 appearances and contributing three goals and two assists. His consistent performances have attracted interest from multiple Premier League clubs, with Tottenham now considering a move to bring him back.
Reports indicate that Tottenham have been keeping a close eye on Cirkin’s development, with scouts regularly assessing his performances. The club is not alone in its pursuit, as Chelsea, Crystal Palace, West Ham United, Everton, and Leeds United have also been tracking the defender this season.
His contract with Sunderland runs until 2026, having last been extended in 2023, making him a valuable asset for the Wearsiders. However, growing interest from the Premier League could prompt a move sooner rather than later.
Cirkin’s journey from Tottenham’s youth system to becoming a key figure for Sunderland showcases his steady growth as a player. The Irish-born left-back has also represented England at the Under-20 level, earning two caps in 2021 alongside talents such as Morgan Rogers and Jarrad Branthwaite.
His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively has made him one of the standout full-backs in the Championship, and his performances have not gone unnoticed. Scouts have labeled him as the best left-back in the division, further strengthening his case for a return to the top flight.
Interest in Cirkin is not new, as former Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho had previously highlighted his potential. Back in November 2019, Mourinho publicly praised the young defender, emphasizing his quality and expressing excitement about integrating him into first-team training.
The Portuguese coach identified Cirkin as a talent with significant promise, a sentiment that has proven accurate given his rise in the Championship. His ability to adapt, improve, and perform at a high level has reinforced the belief that he is ready for the next step in his career.
For Tottenham, strengthening the left-back position has become a priority. While Destiny Udogie has impressed as the club’s first-choice option, depth remains a concern.
Djed Spence has performed well when deployed on the left side, but bringing in a natural left-back like Cirkin would provide additional cover and competition for places. His familiarity with the club and its system could also ease his reintegration, making him a viable candidate for a return.
With multiple Premier League clubs in the mix, Sunderland may face difficulty holding onto their prized full-back. The Championship side will likely demand a significant fee should they entertain offers, knowing that Cirkin’s value continues to rise.
However, the opportunity to play in the Premier League and return to Tottenham, the club where he began his career, may be too tempting to resist.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Cirkin’s future remains a major talking point. Tottenham’s interest reflects their commitment to strengthening the squad with young, talented players capable of making an immediate impact.
Whether a deal materializes will depend on negotiations, but Cirkin’s performances have undoubtedly put him on the radar of multiple top-flight clubs. If Spurs decide to make a move, they could secure a highly promising full-back who already understands the club’s culture and expectations.