Brighton are said to have emerged as the frontrunners to the potential signing of Portsmouth defender, Matt Clarke according to The Portsmouth News. 

The young central defender has been a regular in Kenny Jackett's side this season, as they missed out on promotion to the Championship after falling to a defeat in the play-off semi-final against Sunderland.

It is also thought that the Seagulls have moved ahead of the likes of Watford, Leeds and Reading in the race to sign the in-demand League One star.

In a recent interview with The Portsmouth News, Clarke refused to be drawn into any speculation linking him with a summer move away from Fratton Park.

"I'm contracted until next year and that's all I know.

"I can’t say what is going to happen. I guess you could say that for every member of the squad."

But the youngster didn't rule out a move elsewhere, and insisted that every player always has one eye on a move to a team in a higher division.

"I’m not going to sit here and say I’m going to be here or I’m not going to be here."

"Every player has aspirations to get to the top and play as high as they can.

"You want to play and perform at the next level. You’re always looking to progress."

It's certainly not going to be the last we hear of a rumour linking Clarke with a move away from Portsmouth, and it's set to be an interesting summer ahead in the battle to sign him.

The Verdict: 

He's destined for a move away from Portsmouth.

Clarke has really impressed me this season, and he's showing signs that he could certainly do a job for a team at a higher level, either in the Championship or the Premier League.

It's only a matter of time before he departs.