Sunderland appear to have solidified their position on West Ham target Jack Clarke after turning down a £14 million offer from Lazio for the winger.
Sunderland rejects £14 million Clarke proposal.
The Mackems are determined to keep the 23-year-old at the club, but will face stiff competition from the Hammers, Brentford, and Burnley before deadline day.
The Hammers have been connected with the player since the transfer season opened, and the Irons could be back in before next Thursday.
Clarke has been in contract talks with the Black Cats since last summer, but with clubs surrounding, it appears doubtful that he will stay a Championship player with such interest from the Premier League.
He has scored 13 goals in 29 Championship games this season, but the club is yet to sign him to a contract deal.
However, they continue to rule out a departure for their top player, with sports director Kristjaan Speakman stating that the club is keen to keep its best players.
He stated: “I hear about players being sold, but our goal is to keep our best players, develop them, and move up the league.”
‘I understand your concern about selling players, but there are some who we all like, and our goal is to keep them and develop them.’
