Sunderland may have signed winger Jack Clarke from Tottenham for ‘next to nothing’ on the condition that a 'huge' sell-on clause is included in the deal, claims Spurs insider John Wenham.

The Lowdown: Clarke’s signing

At the weekend, Sunderland announced that they had reached an agreement with the Lilywhites over the permanent signing of the 21-year-old, who spent the second half of last season on loan at the Stadium of Light.

The winger played an integral role in the Black Cats’ promotion to the Championship, making 20 appearances for the Lads, including the club’s play-off final victory over Wycombe Wanderers.

As per BBC Sport, Clarke signed for the Wearside outfit for an undisclosed fee.

The Latest: Wenham’s claim

Wenham believes that the transfer for Clarke should command a minimal fee, but with focus on a sell-on clause.

Speaking with Football Insider, the Lilywhites insider claimed:

“I have seen some people quoting ridiculous figures, you have to be realistic.

“He has 12 months left on his contract. For me, Tottenham would be wiser to let him go for next to nothing with the caveat of a huge sell-on clause.

“That way, if he does go and impress and move again, we will see some of that money back. It has happened before.

“Tottenham got 50% on Marcus Edwards when he moves to Vitoria for essentially nothing. So letting Clarke go for nothing would be better than letting him go for a smaller transfer fee without the clause.

“So I hope that is something Tottenham have included because Clarke has a high ceiling.”

The Verdict: Great signing

Former Leeds United forward Noel Whelan heaped huge praise on the youngster during his time at Elland Road, saying: “He has got a great ability to glide past players. I don’t think I’ve seen a winger really as talented as that, where it looks effortless, just to take somebody on and he really does get you on the edge of your seat, he’s one of those exciting players.”

This was backed up by former Black Cats boss Lee Johnson, who asserted that the winger has the potential to be an ‘influential’ player for the Wearside club.

With such high praise, it is clear to see Sunderland now have a great, young talent on their hands, and with the rumoured fee potentially so low, this could turn out to be shrewd business for the North-East side regardless of what they may lose down the line in clauses.