Sunderland are expected to demand a substantial fee for winger Jack Clarke as he continues to attract Premier League interest, according to Give Me Sport.
The winger enjoyed a fruitful season on a personal level last campaign, despite his side falling to a 16th-place finish. Clarke contributed 15 goals and four assists and that form had reportedly caught the attention of Southampton and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Having come through the youth set-up at Leeds United, the 23-year-old moved to Tottenham Hotspur in a big-money deal. Spurs are beloved to have forked out upwards of £10 million for the attacker.
Three European outings and a brief cameo in the FA Cup were all the playing time he was afforded with the Premier League outfit as he spent his time loaned out to clubs such as Queens Park Rangers, Stoke City and his former side Leeds.
A loan move to Sunderland was eventually made permanent and England Under 20 International has performed consistently, providing 24 goals and 16 assists.
Newly promoted Southampton are said to be very interested in a man who helped his side to a 5-0 victory over the Saints early in the season but is going to have to pay a substantial fee.
Sunderland’s sporting director Kristjaan Speakman has offered no guarantees that a new contract can be agreed upon with Clarke. Thankfully for the Stadium of Light side, the winger is under contract until 2026 meaning any suitors will not get their man on the cheap.
Manager Russell Martin is keen to strengthen his squad as he prepares the club for a return to the top flight and the Sunderland winger has been identified as someone who can contribute goals and provide assists for the likes of Che Adams and Adam Armstrong.
Writer’s View
Statistically, Clarke was very impressive last term and ranked highly amongst other wingers. He is a tricky player who can create chances for his teammates, something a newly promoted side will be crying out for.
Whether he is ready to reproduce his Championship form against Premier League defences remains to be seen.
Should Sunderland get close to their reported £30 million asking price then they will be delighted. New manager Regis Le Bris will hope to see the majority of that money to strengthen his own squad.
The price tag may be high, but Clarke did provide more goals and assists than recent Ipswich Town signing Omari Hutchinson so perhaps it is justified.
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