Maxwel Cornet time looks up at West Ham United amid Jack Clarke speculation
West Ham United are leading the race to sign Jack Clarke from Sunderland this summer in a move which could see Maxwel Cornet forced out.
The Daily Mirror reported [9 May, page 61] that there is plenty of Premier League interest but the Hammers are at the front of the queue.
The deal could hinge on the manager situation at London Stadium, with David Moyes departing and Julen Lopetegui potentially set to step in.
If Clarke is signed in the summer transfer window, it may spell the end of his West Ham career for Cornet.
Should West Ham replace Maxwel Cornet with Jack Clarke?
The Hammers signed the Ivorian for £17.5million back in 2022 [Sky Sports], but he has failed to hit the heights he did at Burnley.
In his spell with the Clarets, he scored nine in just 26 Premier League games [FotMob] but couldn’t help prevent relegation.
Since moving to East London he has only managed to score one goal despite featuring across 37 appearances in two seasons.
He has been effected by injuries but more was expected of the former Lyon star.
Clarke has had a much more productive spell with Sunderland in the Championship which has seen him shine as one of the league’s best players.
The Englishman scored 15 goals and assisted a further four this season despite the Black Cats languishing in 16th place.
It is still unclear as to how much the 23-year-old would cost the Hammers but he could be a great upgrade on Cornet.
Given that the Ivory Coast international has a contract until 2027, he may prove difficult to shift given how much West Ham may demand.
If a similar fee can be recouped on Cornet that will help pay for Clarke, it would represent a great piece of business no matter who is in charge.
In other West Ham news, Lopetegui has made an approach to complete two new signings already.
For more West Ham news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.