The Black Cats turned off any interest in the forward over the summer, but they may face more in January.

The Black Cats turned off any interest in the forward over the summer, but they may face more in January.

Sunderland may be ‘forced with a hefty offer’ for Jack Clarke in the January transfer window as more Premier League clubs eye the Black Cats attacker. Burnley attempted to sign the 22-year-old in the summer, and now Brentford are apparently interested in signing the former Tottenham starlet.

The Wearsiders have denied any interest in Clarke in recent months and have been rewarded with a superb run of form, with the winger scoring seven goals in his first 12 games for Tony Mowbray’s side as they mount another Championship promotion drive. Clarke has three years left on his current contract, so Sunderland aren’t in a position where they need to sell or risk losing him on a cheap deal.

Former England and Leeds United player Carlton Palmer, on the other hand, believes a large enough bid might leave the Black Cats with little choice. Brentford are apparently aiming to do business for roughly £15 million, which is significantly more than the £10 million proposal rejected by Sunderland from Burnley in the summer.

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If striker Ivan Toney leaves in the January transfer window, Brentford may have money to invest. Although he is now suspended for betting-related actions, the attacker has continued to attract interest from clubs such as Arsenal, which might have a knock-on impact.

“Brentford are reportedly considering a £15 million bid for Sunderland’s Jack Clarke,” Palmer told Football League World. “Burnley attempted and failed in three bids to sign Clarke.”

“Clarke, 22, has started the season well, scoring seven goals in 11 Championship games.” With the club vying for promotion, Mowbray will be opposed to Clarke departing. However, a large offer may force his hand.

“Brentford, I think, are expecting Ivan Toney to leave in the January transfer window so are already looking at possible replacements.”