Recent transfer talk has linked Leeds United with a move for Portsmouth’s impressive centre-back Matt Clarke, who helped Kenny Jackett’s side to a memorable Checktrade Trophy win over Sunderland at the weekend and is looking to help Pompey back into the Championship.
Leeds appear to have one eye on summer recruitment despite not knowing what division they’ll be playing in next season, with The Times noting that they hold an interest in Clarke.
The 22-year-old is an impressive defender who has been a consistent in the Portsmouth defence since arriving at Fratton Park in 2015. Whilst his arrival at Leeds would have so many positives, it could impact Aapo Halme, who would be within his rights to feel disappointed by any swoop for Clarke.
[ad_pod ]
Halme hadn’t featured for Leeds until Marcelo Bielsa arrived to manage the first-team, but the Argentine has had some big faith in the Finnish youngster this season. There was a debut against Bristol City in November, whilst Bielsa also turned to Halme off the bench away to Sheffield United, with the towering youngster helping the Whites to an important three points.
It’s been steady progress for Halme this season, he’s only started once in the Championship, but three substitute appearances have shown that Bielsa has some faith in him. In addition to that, the 20-year-old has been impressive for Leeds’ under-23s, who remain on for a league and cup double.
But in comparison to Clarke, Halme has limited first-team experience, despite the fact he will be turning 21 next month. Clarke is 15 months older than the Leeds youngster, but he’s made 143 league appearances for Portsmouth in the lower leagues, building up his reputation.
And, with age on his side, he would be the obvious long-term replacement for either Liam Cooper or Pontus Jansson at Leeds, undoubtedly denting Halme’s chance of stepping up.
Of course, this talk of recruitment is early and there is a lot of time for things to change in terms of targets. However, talk of a talented centre-back like Clarke interesting senior figures at Leeds will worry some of the club’s emerging talent, particularly Halme.