Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a move for Dennis Cirkin in the last 12 months.
While avoiding relegation remains the main focus, Spurs will already be putting plans into place ahead of the summer window.
There are several areas of the squad that need bolstering, with some serious quality needed in the forward areas.
However, Roberto De Zerbi will not turn his nose up if the opportunity to strengthen elsewhere emerges.
And with Cirkin having been linked with Tottenham, that may prove to be one of those scenarios in the coming weeks.
Jose Mourinho was always a fan of Cirkin throughout his time in North London, but the left-back never got much of a look in.
That led to his permanent exit from Tottenham, where he would go on to join Sunderland and play an influential role in their rise back to the Premier League.
| Sunderland | Cirkin |
| Appearances | 125 |
| Goals | 8 |
| Assists | 6 |
However, the former Spurs youth star is out of contract this summer, with Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris having insisted that he is now fourth-choice.
It's unlikely he would sign new terms at the Stadium of Light for that level of role, meaning a free transfer could be on the cards this summer.
And given his versatility and homegrown status, it may be the perfect chance for Tottenham to swoop.
Whether they stay in the Premier League or suffer relegation, Cirkin would make a lot of sense for Tottenham.
He would be an excellent option for depth in the top flight, while already having proven his quality in the Championship.
On a free transfer, it would be a no-brainer for the North Londoners, who are in need of more depth in the defensive areas.