What we know on Hume link and potential full-back replacement
The transfer window is now in full swing and Sunderland left-back Denver Hume has been linked with a move to Portsmouth.
But what do we know about the potential deal and where would a move leave the Black Cats in terms of squad depth? Here, we take a look:
What do we know about the Denver Hune to Portsmouth links?
We know Portsmouth definitely are interested in a deal to take Hume to Fratton Park.
The speculation comes after Hume protracted summer contract saga which left Sunderland fans frustrated.
What has Lee Johnson said about the link between Denver Hume and Portsmouth?
Lee Johnson has stressed that any Sunderland outgoingswillbeontheclub'sterms.
"I can't say a lot, really," Johnson said. "Denver is under contract with us.
"I think he'll be disappointed in recent weeks in terms of wanting to play every minute of every game, but that's what you want from your players as a head coach.
"Wehadthesagaofthesummer the contract but we put thattobedandI'vebeenhappy withhimsincethen.”So,asyou cansee,adealwasn’truledout, norwasitconfirmed.Atypically coy response from Sunderland’s head coach regarding transfers.
What would be the state of play with Sunderland’s squad if Denver Hume left for Portsmouth?
Hume’s game time this season has been severely limited by injury and the form of Cirkin. The ex-Tottenham man is, without doubt, first choice when fit. And Sunderland are also set to be boosted by the returningNiallHuggins,withthe formerLeedsUniteddefender able to play at right-back and left-back.
Both Cirkin and Huggins, however, have suffered injuries this season meaning that should Hume depart, Sunderland may dip into the market to secure cover in the full-back positions.
Who are Sunderland targetingifDenverHumeissold to Portsmouth?
The Black Cats have been heavily linked with a deal for Northampton Town left-back Ali Koiki.
Koikihasbeendescribedas a “revelation” with the player deputising in the absence of club captain Joseph Mills this campaign. Reports also state thatSheffWedandChampionship club Preston North End are interested in a deal.
The player only signed a one-year deal in the summer.
However, Northampton Town boss Jon Brady has confirmedthattheclubdohavean option to extend his contract.
So what conclusions can we draw regarding Denver Hume’s potential move to Portsmouth?
There’s a chance Hume will leave Sunderland for Portsmouth during the window.
His stock with Sunderland fans is low and he is down the
pecking order behind Cirkin and Huggins. A move could suit all parties. Portsmouth strengthen, Hume gets game time and Sunderland potentially scoop a fee that they can reinvest. Any deal is likely to go through after Sunderland’s clash with Portsmouth at the Stadium of Light tomorrow.
However, should Hume depart, the club would step up their attempts to land another left-back. Moreover, the fact that Sunderland have been linked with another left-back this January is telling in regards to Hume’s future.