Sunderland left-back Denis Cirkin, 24, announced his departure on Instagram and is due to become a free agent this summer. Cirkin is expected to attract interest from multiple Championship clubs and from abroad. He made a total of 126 appearances for Sunderland, but following the club's promotion, he lost his role in the first team upon the arrival of Reinildo. Trai Hume was also often preferred in that position, limiting Cirkin to just six top-flight appearances all season under Regis Le Bris.

Dennis Cirkin's Sunderland contract is set to expire this summer, which makes a free transfer exit possible for the 23-year-old defender, who holds Latvian and English nationality. The left-back joined from Tottenham in 2021 and has experienced a decrease in playing time since the club's promotion to the Premier League, making only seven league appearances this season amid injuries and increased competition. It is suggested that Stoke City should consider signing Cirkin, as they are likely to seek left-back improvements and are thought to have the financial means for his wages. Millwall and Norwich City have also been put forward as other potential destinations for the defender. According to Transfermarkt, his current market value is €8.00m.