Ipswich Town lining up big-money transfer move for Sunderland player

However, they were beaten to Hull City’s Jaden Philogene by Aston Villa, meaning they are on the lookout for a new winger, and iNews has revealed that they’re pursuing Clarke.

The update states that the Suffolk outfit are ‘preparing’ a bid for Clarke, who they value in the region of £18m, although it’s unclear whether this will be accepted by the Black Cats.

McKenna has been targeting young players with experience of English football, with Aro Muric, Ben Johnson and Omari Hutchinson the other new signings through the door.

Ipswich’s interest in Clarke is understandable, as he has been one of the standout players in the Championship over the past few years.

Even in the previous campaign, where Sunderland struggled on the whole, Clarke was a bright spot, as he scored 15 goals and registered four assists in 40 appearances.

It’s not just the productivity in front of goal that makes him stand out though, with the ex-Leeds man a joy to watch at times with his pace and dribbling ability.

Therefore, his importance to Sunderland is obvious, and new boss Regis Le Bris would ideally want to retain Clarke and build the team around him.

But, he knows that may not be a possibility. Clarke has entered the final two years of his contract at the Stadium of Light, and it has been said that the two parties couldn’t come to an agreement over an extension.

So, there is a very real possibility that Sunderland look to cash in on Clarke, as this could be his peak value.