Sunderland’s position on its gifted attacker has revealed the price tag for Sheffield United’s Jack Clarke.
Jack Clarke has been fantastic for Sunderland this season, and he’s maintained his form under Michael Beale’s supervision.
The Englishman has scored or assisted in all three of his games, including the game-winning goal against Hull City on Boxing Day and an equalizer from the penalty spot against Rotherham United.
Clarke has scored an astounding 12 Championship goals this season, as his stock and worth continue to rise at the Stadium of Light.
When a player performs at such a high level in the second division, Premier League clubs take note, and several have expressed an interest in the 23-year-old.
In their attempts to beat away the top tier scavengers with a stick, Sunderland have offered him a new deal, but those conversations have apparently hit a ‘impasse’.
The Black Cats are desperate to keep their incredible potential because they want him to progress to the Premier League with them rather than move to a club that appears set to be relegated to the Championship.
Sheffield United are interested in Jack Clarke but have been warned about the cost.
Sheffield United are languishing at the bottom of the Premier League and will need to do a lot of work in the summer season to avoid relegation.
Indeed, the Blades require miracles to finish above the dreaded dotted line, and they believe Clarke can deliver those miracles.
According to sources, they have joined Burnley in their pursuit of the Englishman, but he will not be cheap.
Sunderland value their best property at £25 million or more, according to journalist Michael Graham, who claims the Black Cats are ‘under zero pressure’ to sell Clarke in this window.
According to this update, the North East titans are unwilling to compromise on their asking price, and Graham believes that even a £20 million offer would be insufficient to close a sale.
Sheffield United have no prospect of reaching an agreement
Sheffield United might be praised for their desire, but even if they meet Sunderland’s valuation, there is little likelihood they will sign a deal.
Clarke will be aware that the Yorkshire club’s chances of playing Championship football next season are good, and he cannot risk joining a club fighting for survival.
If he is to join a Premier League club, he will look for a club that can provide him with stability, a path to advancement, and guaranteed football.
Several teams, including West Ham, may potentially offer him that, but as far as Sheffield United are concerned, the Leeds United academy graduate is better off staying in the North East, at least until the summer.
