Sheffield Wednesday have made a formal bid to sign Ipswich Town defender Harry Clarke on loan until the end of the season, according to The Sheffield Star.
With just days remaining before the January transfer window closes, the Owls are keen to strengthen their squad as they push for a Championship play-off spot.
Multiple Clubs Eye Clarke
Clarke, 23, has attracted interest from several Championship sides, having made four starts and three substitute appearances in the Premier League this season. Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna has confirmed that the defender could leave on loan following the arrival of Ben Godfrey from Atalanta, with Axel Tuanzebe also returning to fitness and Ben Johnson providing additional cover at right-back.
If Clarke does depart, it could pave the way for Ipswich to bring in further reinforcements. Reports suggest the club is targeting a striker, a winger, and a midfielder before the transfer deadline, having already secured deals for Godfrey, Jaden Philogene from Aston Villa, and Julio Enciso on loan from Brighton.
Harry Clarke
Clarke began his football journey with Ipswich Town’s youth setup before moving to Arsenal’s academy in 2015. Clarke gained valuable experience through loan spells at Oldham Athletic, Ross County, Hibernian, and Stoke City. In January 2023, he returned to his hometown club, Ipswich Town, signing a three-and-a-half-year deal. Since rejoining, Clarke has been a key player, contributing to the team’s promotion to the Premier League. Known for his ability to play both as a centre-back and right-back, he has made 67 appearances for Ipswich Town, scoring once
Sheffield Wednesday’s Play-Off Push
Currently sitting in 10th place, Sheffield Wednesday are just three points off the play-off positions and looking to add quality to their squad in the final days of the window. Danny Rohl’s side have been relatively quiet in the market so far, but Clarke’s arrival would provide a valuable defensive option as they aim to climb the table.
Meanwhile, Ipswich continue to make squad adjustments. Winger Wes Burns may be de-registered if his knee injury rules him out for the season, while George Edmundson has joined Middlesbrough for £600,000 and Ali Al-Hamadi has moved to Stoke City on loan.
Writer’s View
Sheffield Wednesday’s interest in Clarke is a logical move as they seek defensive reinforcements to bolster their play-off bid. For Ipswich, the loan would allow them to reshape their squad and create space for new signings. With multiple clubs vying for Clarke, his future will likely be decided in the coming days. If Wednesday can secure the deal, it could prove a smart addition to their squad as they push for a top-six finish.
