Brighton and Hove Albion are leading the race to sign Portsmouth defender Matt Clarke, it has been claimed.
The Premier League side are already in talks with the player, and he has already had his medical with the Seagulls as per Brighton and Hove Independent.
Interestingly, Championship outfits Leeds United and Stoke City were also interested, but the Seagulls seem to have moved ahead of the two sides, and considering how serious they are, it’s only a matter of time before the deal is official announced.
Clarke was entering the final year of his contract, and Portsmouth were better off selling him this summer rather than lose him for free next summer.
Brighton had a tough season last time out in the Premier League, and need to add a few more players to their squad to avoid another skirmish with relegation next season.
Matt Clarke: Profile
A product of the Ipswich Town youth academy, Clarke eventually featured for the club’s senior team before a loan spell with Portsmouth in the 2015-16 season.
Eventually, he was signed on a permanent deal by Pompey, and he has emerged as one of their most reliable players at the back.
Clarke made 60 appearances for his side last season, and won the club’s Player of the Season award.
What will Clarke add to Brighton’s defence?
At 22, Clarke has shown the maturity that belies his age, even though he has played most of his football in the lower division. He is renowned for his ability to move the ball out from the back, and is extremely comfortable on the ball, something different to the current crop of players at the club.
Clarke’s is equally gritty and can put a foot in when needed, so he does have a bit of the old English defensive aura about him as well, something that should go well with his ability to pass and maraud forward.
Graham Potter has Shane Duffy and Lewis Dunk as options, and the duo are likely to be his preferred central defensive pairing. However, someone like Clarke adds something different to the team, and with him in the side, Potter can try and implement a more patient approach.
The Englishman is still a rough diamond, but if he is gradually integrated into the top-flight, he might become a handy player for the Seagulls next season.
