Tottenham Hotspur reportedly made an enquiry for Burnley’s Dwight McNeil before making their move for Jack Clarke.
According to a report from The Sun on Sunday (30/6; page 59), Tottenham made an enquiry for Burnley winger Dwight McNeil before Mauricio Pochettino’s pushed through a move for Jack Clarke.
Clarke is expected to become the man to end Spurs’ long wait for a new signing, with the Leeds winger set to complete his move to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium imminently. But it appears that the situation could have played out differently.
The Sun on Sunday (30/6; page 59) suggests that Spurs enquired about McNeil, who made his debut for the Clarets on the final day of the 2017/18 season and went on to make 21 Premier League appearances last term for Sean Dyche’s men.
The report notes that McNeil – who is now being tracked by Juventus – is rated at £30 million, which is almost four times what Spurs are apparently paying for Clarke, according to Sky Sports.
McNeil the real deal?
The 19-year-old had a direct hand in eight goals this past season, scoring three goals and contributing five assists for Burnley. Only two players in the Clarets’ squad finished above of him in both areas, so it is not difficult to see why the likes of Tottenham and Juventus are interested.
But with Burnley reportedly demanding £30 million for the teenager, it is probably not a huge surprise that Clarke appears to have become Spurs’ preferred target. Clarke may have no experience at the top flight yet, but it appears to be a much smaller gamble to pay £8.5 million for the Leeds starlet at this stage.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
