Southampton have set their sights on signing Leeds United sensation Jack Clarke, according to Calcio Mercato.
The Italian transfer site claim the Premier League outfit are keen to take advantage of the contract situation of the 18-year-old, whose current deal expires in 2021.
Recent reports have stated Leeds have delayed opening talks with the in-form attacker about a new deal until the end of the season.
Good move for Leeds?
Definitely not. There is no scenario in which offloading Clarke midway through the season could be on benefit to the Championship leaders. Sure, the rising star might attract a fee of around £10million – although it’s unlikely to see Leeds getting more than that given he has made only one league start – but he could be worth double or treble that in a few years. Clarke looks the best player to emerge at Elland Road since Lewis Cook, and the fact he is an attacking player who creates and scores goals demonstrate the club have a rare gem on their hands. It’s unsurprising there is widespread elite-club interest in Clarke, but Leeds must batten down the hatches, accelerate contract talks and tie down their prize asset.
This Is Futbol rating 1/10
Likely to happen?
It is possible, although there must be some doubt as to whether Southampton retain their Premier League status. Jumping from a club who are promotion favourites for a club fighting relegation doesn’t appear a smart career move. The Saints may well be very interested but a deal looks unlikely at this stage.
This Is Futbol rating 3/10