In a recent print edition, The Sun (20 August, page 48) claimed that West Ham United are in the race to land Sunderland winger Jack Clarke. It is understood that the Hammers are set to rival Southampton in the race to sign the English wide player this summer.
Clarke’s Impressive Form In The EFL Championship Last Season
Clarke had a productive campaign at the Stadium of Light as he put in a series of impressive displays on the left side of Sunderland’s attack. The 23-year-old was involved in 42 matches for his current employers last season, scoring 15 times and picking up four assists in multiple competitions.
The English talent was a consistent performer in the final third based on his average of 2.8 shots, 2.3 key passes and 3.7 dribbles per game in the EFL Championship. He was even tidy when distributing the ball in the opponent’s half after completing 77.3% of his attempted passes in the second tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the English club will run out in the summer of 2026, so West Ham would have to make a convincing offer if they are serious about recruiting Clarke this month.
Should West Ham United Boss Julen Lopetegui Snap Clarke Up This Month?
Clarke is a decent dribbler with the ball at his feet and can make a few driving runs with the ball out on the flanks. He has got the vision to orchestrate a few inviting chances for his teammates in the final third and can strike the ball with venom from long range.
The English talent added a lot of goals to his game last season. However, it remains to be seen whether he can maintain his good form in the Premier League if West Ham manage to win the race for his services.
At 23, Clarke has his best years ahead of him which makes him a decent fit for Julen Lopetegui’s needs this summer. He would bring more firepower to the East London club‘s attack. Thus, the Hammers would be wise to try everything in their power to snap Clarke up in this summer transfer period as he could help them compete across all fronts in the coming years.
