Noel Whelan Exclusive: I’m hearing this is reason Leeds ace’s big-money exit has stalled
12 hours ago
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EXCLUSIVE
Noel Whelan has claimed Jack Clarke’s potential exit from Leeds United has stalled because the club have “overpriced him†at £20million.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-United striker claimed he has heard that the Whites have slapped the enormous valuation on the 18-year-old winger amid Premier League club interest.
Football Insider revealed last month that Tottenham are preparing a move to sign Elland Road academy product after encouragement that he could be lured away with a bid in the region of £10m.
There is also interest in the rising star from Bournemouth, Crystal Palace and Southampton, but Whelan is unconvinced any would be willing to pay a huge sum for such an unproven player.
“Leeds have overpriced the young man from what I hear,†he told Football Insider. “They want £20million for him and he’s not worth that. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.
“£12million is a lot of money, but £20million is overpricing a player. You have to be sensible with a player’s valuation. He still has a long way to go.
“Don’t get me wrong, I’d love him to stay at Leeds and progress as a player, but we will see if that happens.â€
Clarke emerged from the Leeds youth ranks to burst on to the first team scene last season and made a big impact with a series of dazzling performances, mainly as a winger.
United stalled on offering the teenager a new deal during the campaign and this has given encouragement to Premier League clubs he can be lured away this summer for the right price.