Southampton 'to consider' Sunderland left-back Dennis Cirkin this summer | OneFootball

Southampton are being linked with Sunderland left-back Dennis Cirkin as a summer option, a move that would address a clear squad need.

Sports Boom reports that the 23-year-old, a Tottenham academy graduate and England youth international, fits the Saints’ recruitment profile and could offer long-term value.

He has made more than 100 appearances for Sunderland and was a key part of their promotion campaign, which suggests he can handle the demands of another push if required.

His path to regular starts has been blocked following a summer recruitment spree, and a fresh start may appeal as his contract nears its end.

Left-back remains a weak spot for Southampton. Welington is the stronger defender but has fitness issues, while Ryan Manning contributes goals and set-pieces yet struggles defensively at Championship level, never mind the Premier League.

Cirkin has experience across League One, the Championship and limited Premier League minutes, and while he may not start immediately, his age and underlying ability suggest scope to grow with consistent minutes.

Birmingham City and Watford are also interested, which may reduce the chances of a deal. This could prove no more than routine paper talk or agents testing the market, but the profile still makes sense for Southampton.

Source: Sainstmarching.com