Sunderland have been linked for a move for Tottenham Hotspur youngster Dennis Cirkin as Lee Johnson looks to address his left-back problems.
The Black Cats only have Denver Hume as a recognised first-team player in that position, with the academy graduate still in contract talks with the club following the expiry of his last deal earlier this summer.
That leaves Johnson with an issue to solve heading into the new season, with the club starting their League One promotion campaign with no recognised first-team full-backs.
However, reports this morning have linked the Black Cats with a move for Spurs youngster Cirkin, with the 19-year-old able to play in the wide defensive roles.
Football Insider say Sunderland are one of two clubs reportedly speaking to Spurs over a permanent deal.
Cirkin has yet to make his first-team debut for the club, but has been on the bench on several occasions.
After signing his first professional deal with Spurs, then manager Jose Mourinho said: "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."
Sunderland take on Wigan Athletic in Saturday's League One curtain-raiser with Johnson facing a decision over his full-backs.
Carl Winchester has played right-back in pre-season, with youngster Dan Neil used on the left-side of the defence on several occasions.
Luke O'Nien can also play in either role, although Johnson would prefer to use him as a midfielder.
