According to The Sun, Tottenham Hotspur have prioritised the signing of Olympique Lyon midfielder Tanguy Ndombele. The Frenchman has the ingredients that could make him an ideal fit for the Lilywhites next season. But, they have also identified Jack Clarke as a target and are expected to pursue him after they sign Ndombele this summer.
The Leeds United midfielder burst onto the scene this past season and has since been linked with a move to the Premier League from January. His current contract with the Peacocks expires at the end of 2020/21 campaign.
Jack Clarke’s rapid rise to prominence
After impressing in the academy, Clarke was initially promoted to the Leeds senior side last summer. The 18-year-old hasn’t been a first-team regular for the Championship outfit per se, having started only four games. But, he was used as more of an impact player, with 18 of his 22 appearances during the 2018/19 campaign coming as a substitute.
Clarke hasn’t exactly been productive, scoring just two goals in 791 minutes of league football he amassed this past season. However, his willingness to take on defenders coupled with his pace has helped Leeds become much more dynamic in attack.
What can Clarke bring to the table?
As discussed earlier, Clarke is mainly known for his dribbling skill. The youngster has averaged a whopping three successful dribbles per game, which is quite impressive. What helps him in his bid to beat defenders is his intelligent movements as he can cleverly drop shoulders and baffle the opposition.
Another key asset of his game is his pace. He really knows when to use his burst of speed and is very deceptive in his movements. Hence, the 18-year-old often becomes useful when probing the opposition, especially from a wide-attacking position.
Should Tottenham make a move for Clarke?
Clarke is definitely not ready for top-flight football at the moment and still has a lot to improve in his overall game, especially when it comes to ball retention (he has averaged three unsuccessful touches per game). But, a move to Tottenham Hotspur could make sense given Mauricio Pochettino’s proficiency in nurturing young British talents.
The Lilywhites also lack the services of natural wingers, with Erik Lamela struggling with injuries while the duo of Son Heung-Min and Lucas Moura have been utilised in a more central role. Clarke, in that regard, will be able to provide an additional weapon to Pochettino in terms of his tactical choices in the final third.
But, Clarke is mostly expected to play in the Tottenham reserves – something he needs to be aware of, should he join the North Londoners this summer.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
