Jack Clarke is a target for Leeds United ahead of the August 30 deadline as The Whites look to replace the loss of Crysencio Summerville, and Graeme Bailey has delivered an update.
Leeds fans are growing frustrated by the club’s lack of activity in the transfer window when it comes to new signings. That is despite the club losing the likes of Summerville, Georginio Rutter and Archie Gray.
Clarke, 23, is said to be an option in a surprise move that would see the Thorp Arch produce return to Leeds five years after the Yorkshire club sold him to Tottenham for a fee said to be in the region of £9m.
Since then, Clarke has been back on loan to Leeds, QPR and Stoke but struggled at all three before a move to Sunderland which rejuvenated his career. He’s had a hand in 51 goals in 114 Sunderland games.
What Clarke is expecting from Leeds in the next few days
The Sunderland ace has two years left on his contract and the Black Cats are keen to tie Clarke down to a new deal, but are said to be ‘struggling’. Leeds are aware of Clarke’s situation and are interested in a deal.
It is believed a bid of £20m could tempt Sunderland to sell the England youth international. Leeds have the cash necessary to do a deal if possible, having raked in around £120m in transfer fees this summer.
Transfer expert Bailey told LeedsUnited.News that Clarke is now expecting a move from Leeds and he would be very open to a return to Elland Road in the coming days, before the August 30 deadline.
“Leeds are keen [on signing Clarke]. Clarke is expecting the move but there is Premier League interest but told he is very much open to Elland Road return. The price is part of the conversation,” Bailey said.
Competition in Clarke is aplenty with Leeds not alone in chase
Premier League clubs are said to be interested in signing the “phenomenal” winger after his 15 goals and four assists last season, in what was a tumultuous campaign for Sunderland during the 23-24 campaign.
His form has made him seen as one of the best wingers currently plying his trade outside of the Premier League. Unsurprisingly, top tier-clubs like Southampton and Lazio want to sign Clarke in the next week.
Bailey said there are six clubs chasing Clarke alongside Leeds: “It seems like Sunderland would want £20m but that’s a big reason nobody has taken him. There are half a dozen clubs keen on signing Clarke.”
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