Speakman has held SAFC talks to sign "effortless" £9m magician, he's McGeady 2.0 – opinion

An update has emerged on Sunderland and their efforts to land Tottenham forward Jack Clarke in the summer transfer window…

Northern Echo journalist Scott Wilson has revealed that Kristjaan Speakman has held negotiations with the Premier League club over a deal for the attacker.

He Tweeted: “SAFC have held talks to try to re-sign Jack Clarke and Nathan Broadhead – but a final decision on both players is unlikely until later in the summer. Both are entering the final year of their current deals with Spurs and Everton.”

Spurs reportedly paid £9m to Leeds to sign him and it remains to be seen how much they would be willing to sell him for this summer.

One player the club will need to replace this summer is outgoing winger Aiden McGeady and Clarke can be his successor out wide.

In 12 League One starts, the departing Irishman produced three goals and four assists – creating seven ‘big chances’ and making 2.4 key passes per game. He consistently delivered in the final third with his crossing and passing to set up his teammates and, as it stands, his exit will be a huge blow to Alex Neil’s squad.

By signing Clarke, Sunderland can land the next McGeady as he has the potential to develop into a creative force at the top end of the pitch.

Former Premier League forward Noel Whelan once lauded the youngster’s ability on the ball, saying:

“He has got a great ability to glide past players. I don’t think I’ve seen a winger really as talented as that, where it looks effortless, just to take somebody on and he really does get you on the edge of your seat, he’s one of those exciting players.”

In 11 League One starts last term, Clarke managed one goal and three assists on loan at the Stadium of Light. He created five ‘big chances’ and made