Leeds United’s left-back hunt: Stats show why Dennis Cirkin may be better fit than Matt Targett
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Targett has been a standout performer in the Championship this term, but Daniel Farke and Co. should also be considering a move for Cirkin, who was a thorn in the side of his team in their promotion campaign.Regis Le Bris admitted that he doesn’t know where the 24-year-old’s future lies on Thursday, and that should be enough for him to feature in Leeds’ transfer plans ahead of his contract expiring this summer. 🔄 Leeds United Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on latest signings, departures, and contract news from the Elland Road boardroom. VISIT THE LEEDS TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Dennis Cirkin better suited to wing-back role than Matt TargettLe Bris’ recent move to downplay the speculation surrounding a new contract for Cirkin likely serves as an indication that he will leave the Stadium of Light at the end of the season.
Cirkin 2024-25StatsTargett 2025-2636 (30)Apps (Starts)40 (38)5G/A70.56Chances Created per 901.610.66Successful Dribbles per 900.173.02Tackles per 901.396.66Duels Won per 903.11Cirkin’s stats from his last Championship season compared to Targett this term, as per Fotmob.The Latvian international has been starved of regular gametime with the Black Cats this term, but there is still plenty of evidence to suggest that he would be a better option for Leeds than Targett. Cirkin completed more successful dribbles than the Middlesbrough loanee during his last season in the Championship, and was also significantly stronger without the ball, as his stats for tackles and duels won dwarfed those of Targett.Targett has the advantage of boasting far more Premier League experience than Cirkin, but that is largely due to the 24-year-old struggling badly with injuries this term.
Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris admits he is unsure of the future of defender Dennis Cirkin.The full-back is out of contract with the club this summer and has made just nine appearances under Le Bris this season.Several Championship clubs are believed to be keen on the… pic.twitter.com/gk4XHtBRR8— Sunderland AFC News And Banter Page (@sunderlandafc11) April 23, 2026 View Tweet His lack of top-flight experience will provide a slight concern, but shouldn’t be a deal breaker given that he will start off as a backup to Gudmundsson. Cirkin will surely have plenty of interest as well if he does leave Sunderland, but with much of that likely to come from the Championship, Leeds would hold an edge by being able to offer a stay in the Premier League. 🚨 Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Leeds United Insider Access Get the full story from Elland Road and Thorp Arch with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of West Yorkshire.