West Ham monitor Sunderland star ahead of potential summer swoop
West Ham are already lining up potential transfer targets ahead of the summer window, and it appears they won’t be reluctant to look into the Championship.
With the current season looking as though it will pan out to nothing for West Ham, plenty of focus will already be on the decisions that need to be made in order to progress next season.
Of course, the main area of that will be recruitment, and the Irons are already hard at work when it comes to identifying players who will be capable of having an impact immediately.
With the recent signing of Crysencio Summerville, it is clear that West Ham aren’t afraid to buy from the Championship, and they may be looking to do it again this summer with a swoop for a Sunderland star.
Sunderland defender on West Ham radar
Dating back to the win against Arsenal, Graham Potter has opted to deploy a back five for West Ham, seemingly increasing the need for a few defensive reinforcements in the summer, and the Black Cats may have the perfect option for them.
Dennis Cirkin has been in magnificent form for Sunderland this season, registering five goals/assists from left back, and according to a report from Sunderland AFC News (6 March), he is a player that West Ham have been keeping an eye on.
His ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch has seen him thrive in the Championship, earning him interest from several Premier League clubs.
| Sunderland | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Duels won | Passes completed |
| Dennis Cirkin | 31 | 3 | 2 | 183 | 747 |
Given his form, and the fact that he is still just 22 years old, he is unlikely to come cheap, though Sunderland may be forced to cash in for a fee less than desired if they fail in their attempts to get promoted.
The Black Cats currently sit fourth in the Championship, with it looking as though it will be the playoffs or bust for Regis Le Bris’ side.
Potter could hit the jackpot with Cirkin signing
The recent change in formation has seen Aaron Cresswell return to form, and the comparisons to be made with Cirkin are certainly interesting.
Both are natural left-backs with a tendency to get forward, and that ability could suit the current style of play down to a tee.
The Irons will certainly be busy this summer, and if they are able to secure the signature of Cirkin, it would be a huge coup.