EXCLUSIVE

Leeds United are in “constant talks” with Tottenham about the sale of Jack Clarke, according to Noel Whelan.

The ex-United striker and lifelong fan, who covers all the club’s matches as a pundit and has strong Elland Road connections, told Football Insider that negotiations are going on behind the scenes between the two clubs.

Football Insider revealed last month that Tottenham are preparing a move to sign Elland Road academy product after encouragement that he could be lured away this summer for a significant fee.

Leeds now value Clarke, 18, at around the £20million mark and Whelan explained the clubs are some way from securing an agreement.

“It’s probably the reason for the lack of transfer activity from Leeds so far,” Whelan told Football Insider. “Do they have to sell before they buy?

“There is obviously interest in Jack Clarke from Tottenham. The clubs are in constant talks over a deal and talking to each regularly about how a deal could be structured.

“Leeds want £20million for him, which, even in this market, is a lot of money for someone with talent, but who has a long way to go.”

Clarke burst on to the scene last autumn and made a huge initial impression with a series of exciting performances on the wing, mainly as a substitute.

He suffered a mystery illness in early February and that stalled his progress, and he struggled for game time in the final months of last season.

In other Leeds United news, it can be REVEALED that Wolves have asked for another key Whites player in part-exchange for Helder Costa.