Sunderland reject Lazio's second Jack Clarke bid

But Clarke's future beyond that looks extremely uncertain. The 23-year-old's contract - which was signed after the Black Cats won promotion from League One - runs until 2026 but as things stand it's understood that there's no offer of an improved deal on the table for the winger.

Unless Sunderland want to risk Clarke moving into the last 18 months of his contract, a summer exit looks increasingly likely for the club's top scorer.

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There's no shortage of clubs in the Premier League and overseas interested in the former Leeds and Tottenham man, with Lazio, who are currently sixth in Serie A and approaching a Champions League last 16 clash with Bayern Munich, having attempted to prise Clarke away from Sunderland in the final week of the window.

An initial offer was rejected over the weekend. Lazio then returned with an improved deal - in the region of €16m - which is now also understood to have been knocked back. Maurizio Sarri's side are now expected to look elsewhere rather than return with a third offer for Clarke. Norwich City's Jon Rowe - also linked with Aston Villa this month - is thought to be one player interesting Lazio.

While Clarke is keen to test himself at the highest level, the winger won't agitate for a move in the final days and has shown in the first half of the season that he doesn't let transfer speculation and uncertainty disrupt his performances on the pitch. But if he continues in his current form, there'll be a fierce battle for his signature in the summer.