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Sunderland fans blast ‘desperate’ Ian Harte following Jack Clarke post, Leeds United linked

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Sunderland star Jack Clarke put in another stellar performance last weekend.

Despite not getting himself a goal, Jack Clarke shone for Sunderland during the 4-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday last weekend.

Clarke earned praise for his performance, once again showcasing his close control and attacking input as the Black Cats gave Regis Le Bris a home debut to remember.

So far in this 2024/25 Championship season, Sunderland have won two games from two, having yet to concede either.

The season ahead could be very promising although Sunderland fans and indeed Le Bris will want manage expectations throughout.

And the club’s expectations and outcome this season could be heavily effected by the future of Clarke; whether or not he stays or goes this summer.

Clarke has Premier League interest, with the latest reports claiming that Clarke has not rejected a new Sunderland contract despite suggestions otherwise.

Now, Clarke’s controversial agent, Ian Harte, has come under the spotlight on social media.

Cardiff City v Sunderland - Sky Bet Championship
Photo by Ian Horrocks/Sunderland AFC via Getty Images

Ian Harte post causes anger among Sunderland fans amid Jack Clarke interest

Harte has been very outspoken in the past, previously saying that he hopes Clarke got a big move away from Sunderland at some point in the future.

Now, the former Leeds United man has further fuelled the fire, amid Leeds United’s interest in Clarke.

Harte posted a picture of some of Clarke’s stats on social media, showcasing how Clarke is the Championship’s most-creative player since the start of the 2022/23 season.

One Sunderland fan posted: “We all know you want him to leave,” with another adding: “We all know what you want, Ian. It’s about you lining your pockets, not what’s best for the player.”

Other Sunderland fans labelled Harte as “unprofessional” and “desperate” for Clarke to leave Sunderland.

Another Black Cats supporter jokingly said of Harte: “Wouldn’t be shocked if I see him trying to flog Jack Clarke on Facebook.”

Whilst one fan added: “Clarke needs to sack you off ASAP.”

Sunderland v Olympique Marseille - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Nigel Roddis/Getty Images

Sunderland have proved who holds the cards in Jack Clarke future

Interest in Clarke is no secret. And with his contract out in 2026 and a new one yet to be agreed, it’s also no secret that the 23-year-old could leave Sunderland in the coming week or so.

But the Sunderland owners and Kristjaan Speakman have made it clear that they won’t sell Clarke for less than they value him at, which according to recent reports is £25million.

So for Harte, whilst he may just be showing off his client’s record, posting picture like this won’t help force through his move.

Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and Speakman hold all the power and unless they get an offer close to £25million for Clarke in the next week, he won’t be leaving the Stadium of Light.