Leeds United are already making plans ahead of the January transfer window, as Daniel Farke’s squad is currently stretched thin due to injuries and suspensions. Long-term knee injuries to Ethan Ampadu, Ilia Gruev, and Max Wober forced Farke into action, leading him to bring in free agent Josuha Guilavogui.

Isaac Schmidt even drew comparisons between Guilavogui and the legendary Zinedine Zidane following his impressive performance on Saturday, highlighting the Frenchman’s class and quality in midfield.

Ethan Ampadu is making good progress in his recovery and is ahead of schedule, but he is unlikely to return before late December. The recent spate of injuries and suspensions has exposed Leeds United’s thin squad in certain areas.

With Junior Firpo serving a three-game ban, Leeds have been forced to rely on the injury-prone Sam Byram and the untested Isaac Schmidt at left-back. While Schmidt did provide an assist for Joel Piroe’s goal on Saturday, it’s becoming clear that a new left-back may be necessary to bolster the squad.

Leeds United are eyeing a £6m move for Sunderland left-back Dennis Cirkin in January, as concerns grow over the future of Junior Firpo, whose contract expires at the end of the season. Firpo’s future at Elland Road will likely hinge on whether Leeds secure promotion, and with Byram also out of contract, the club may need to reinforce their left-back options.

According to the Sunday Mirror (10/11, p69), Leeds are keen on Cirkin, but Sunderland are reportedly not willing to sell the 22-year-old. While a January move seems unlikely, Leeds are monitoring the situation. Cirkin, with his wealth of Championship experience, would be a valuable addition, though his signing could strengthen a potential promotion rival.

Jose Mourinho has previously spoken highly of Dennis Cirkin during the player’s time at Tottenham. The Portuguese manager praised Cirkin for his defensive capabilities and maturity, even at a young age. Mourinho recognized Cirkin’s potential, noting that the left-back had the attributes to develop into a solid Premier League player, even though he was still a work in progress. Mourinho’s comments highlighted Cirkin’s disciplined approach to the game and his potential to grow into a key player.

Since joining Sunderland in 2021, Cirkin has continued to impress, playing an instrumental role in their promotion to the Championship under Tony Mowbray. His partnership with Jack Clarke on the left side has been a key feature of Sunderland’s success, and he has gone on to shine in the second tier, earning a reputation as one of the league’s most promising full-backs.

Dennis Cirkin’s impressive form continues to attract attention, with the left-back now boasting 10 goals and assists in 51 Championship appearances, following a brace in Sunderland’s 2-2 draw with Coventry. Known for his defensive solidity, attacking prowess, and aerial ability, Cirkin has proven himself as one of the standout full-backs in the Championship.

Before his move to Sunderland, Cirkin caught the eye of then-Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho. In 2019, Mourinho praised the young defender, telling Football London, “OK, he’s 17, but he’s a kid with a lot of quality, and I look forward to bringing him to train with us, and to help his development.” Clearly, Cirkin has lived up to that potential, making strides at Sunderland.

Leeds United are reportedly interested in securing Cirkin’s services, but they may face competition. Tottenham had previously included a £6m buyback clause for the player, which expired in the most recent transfer window, and there have been reports linking Spurs with a potential re-signing of Cirkin. With his growing reputation, it’s likely that Leeds won’t be the only club keeping tabs on him.