Jack Clarke’s long-term future at Sunderland is in doubt with the Black Cats unlikely to make a late push for the Championship play-offs – and Carlton Palmer has discussed if Leeds could re-sign him.
A Leeds academy product, Clarke broke through at Elland Road during Marcelo Bielsa‘s first year in the Leeds hotseat. He was then signed by Tottenham and instantly loaned back to Leeds, but he struggled.
Loans at Stoke, QPR and Sunderland followed – with Clarke only playing four times for Spurs at senior level. He joined Sunderland permanently, and has gone on to have a hand in 49 goals in 105 matches.
This season, he’s scored 15 goals and laid on four assists in 35 games for Sunderland – but is currently sidelined with an injury. In January, Lazio saw a £15m bid rejected. Sunderland want £21m, as per CM.
Dean Jones recently told GMS that if Leeds are promoted, Clarke is the kind of player Leeds will go after. Former Whites midfielder Palmer discussed those links, telling FLW it is an unrealistic option to sign him.
“I think it’s highly unlikely that Clarke will return. First of all, Leeds have got to get promoted. There are also a host of clubs who are in for him, and I can’t see him going back to his old club; I just can’t see it.
“I’d expect offers for Gnonto and Summerville, so they will need to bring in another player. Clarke could be that player. Great player, a great fit for Daniel Farke, but I just don’t think that he’ll revisit that again.”
Carlton Palmer on whether Leeds could re-sign Jack Clarke
Clarke would be a wonderful signing. He is a player that is full of confidence and ready for the Premier League. The teenager that showed raw quality and glimpses in his first year at Leeds, is now consistent.
But, Leeds have three excellent wingers in the form of Cree Summerville, Willy Gnonto and Dan James. Does Clarke start over any of those three? That is up for debate. One or two may go for Clarke to join.
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