EXCLUSIVE: Jack Clarke makes feelings clear about re-signing for Leeds as Whites approach Sunderland to sign winger

Jack Clarke stance on last-gasp Leeds United transfer after Sunderland exit update

Sunderland winger Jack Clarke would be happy to exit the Stadium of Light and make a last-gasp return to Leeds United, according to Graeme Bailey.

The journalist told TBR Football on Monday (19 August) that the Black Cats attacker is of interest to several teams ahead of the transfer deadline and is expecting to leave the North East before 30 August.

Daniel Farke’s side are believed to be in the mix for the 23-year-old’s signature this summer as the Whites look to bolster their attacking options after the departure of Crysencio Summerville.

Reports suggest that Sunderland have slapped a £25million price tag on Clarke’s head, with the Black Cats not willing to sanction his exit unless their terms are met [Sunderland Echo, 19 August].

Supporters will have to imagine that Clarke would quite like to make the jump up into the Premier League this summer having starred in the Championship with Sunderland over the last couple of seasons.

But if a move to the top flight isn’t on offer, a move back to Leeds United and Elland Road could well be the next best thing as it gives Clarke a clear platform to make his way back into the top flight in the near future.

Should Farke’s side go one better than they did last term and book their place in the automatic promotion places, the winger will get to play in the Premier League straight away.

If not, Summerville and Georginio Rutter have shown that a move to Elland Road can offer you a route back into the top flight even if you don’t manage to win promotion out of the Championship.

Whether or not Leeds will be willing to match Sunderland’s asking price remains to be seen, however. £25million is a big fee for a player outside of the Premier League, but Farke’s side does have money to spend.

This feels like a deal that could go right down to the wire on deadline day, but the positive news is the fact that the Whites are still in the running.