Leeds United would be taking huge risk with Jack Clarke if they signed Jeremain Lens

By Mathew Nash

Leeds United clearly have a gem in the form of talented winger Jack Clarke. The 18-year-old has impressed in a number of appearances for Marcelo Bielsa’s men this season and is rightly being considered a top young talent for years to come.

It is, therefore, no surprise that he is being linked with the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea.

So far, Leeds boss Bielsa has played it brilliantly with the teenager. Mostly used as an impact sub, Clarke is being well managed to avoid burnout or placing too much pressure on such young shoulders.

ISTANBUL, TURKEY – DECEMBER 2: Ozan Kabak (R) of Galatasaray in action against Jeramain Lens (L) of Besiktas during the Turkish Super Lig soccer match between Besiktas and Galatasaray at Vodafone Park in Istanbul, Turkey on December 2, 2018. (Photo by Metin Pala/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)

However, they have also been linked with a move for Jeremain Lens. As reported by Aksam, the Dutchman was recently scouted by Leeds in Europa League action against Sarpsborg. The Turkish source has now suggested that Leeds might consider a loan move for the player which could be made permanent with promotion to the Premier League.

For the sake of Clarke’s development, Leeds should avoid such a deal. Lens may be a Dutch international, but preventing Clarke from his current role would be a big mistake from Leeds.

It would no doubt have him questioning his future as well, with the big-boys seemingly keen.

Leeds have plenty of cover in Clarke’s role, especially with Izzy Brown now back fit. They should not put a block in the way of his development by signing the controversial Dutchman, or any other right-winger, in the winter.