RUSSELL MARTIN’S Premier League hopefuls Southampton want to win the race for Sunderland star Jack Clarke.
Saints are planning a £15million bid for the Championship superstar winger, 23.
Ex-Spurs ace Clarke wants another crack at the top flight and will be open to a move if the Black Cats do not go up.
Sunderland may have to cash in on their best player, who is also liked by Brentford.
While West Ham were heavily tipped to make a January bid for the 15-goal star.
Crystal Palace are also monitoring Clarke and could make an approach this summer, particularly if Michael Olise leaves.
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Even Serie A giants Lazio have taken an interest and reportedly submitted a £15m offer last month.
Tottenham have a 25 per cent sell-on clause which could affect Sunderland’s valuation of their star man.
Saints also have a £15m deal in place for centre-half Taylor Harwood-Bellis.
The Manchester City star, 22, is on loan at St Mary’s but that will turn into a full-time deal at the big price if Southampton go up this season.
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Martin’s side are two points an automatic promotion place but have a game in hand over second-placed Leeds.
Their 25-game unbeaten run was ended by Bristol City last week but they bounced back by beating West Brom 2-0 on Friday.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
