Premier League club set to offer Newcastle man contract this summer

Newcastle United are trying to hold on to Ciaran Clark, but another top flight outfit is hoping that will not happen.

Newcastle United had a busy, competitive week against two of the leagues top teams in Liverpool (0-0) and Leicester City (1-2), and they will now prepare for a big cup tie against Arsenal this weekend.

Multiple players have stepped up their game to develop a fighting spirit within the squad this past week, and one of those players has been Ciaran Clark. Various injuries over the last few seasons have seen him jump in and out of the lineup, but he is a reliable defender when healthy.

Defensively, Clark is a confrontational player who puts his body on the line, reacts to situations quickly, and is always in the right place to make a big clearance. On the opposite end of the pitch, Clark is also good for some goals, especially from set pieces.

His aggressive defending and the eight goals associated to his name over the last four seasons are key reasons why Crystal Palace are interested in securing his services for free this summer.

According to the Telegraph, Clark is highly regarded by the staff and front office at Selhurst Park. When looking at the quality of the Eagles’ back line, the Republic of Ireland international would definitely break into the starting lineup.

He has started a good number of games for the Toon, but he has mainly been second-choice when both Jamaal Lascelles and Federico Fernandez have been healthy. Steve Bruce is hopeful that Clark will put pen to paper on a new deal, but a move to Palace would see Clark get regular minutes.

It remains to be seen what will come of the internal negotiations at St. James’ Park over the next few weeks. The Magpies have done a good job extending contracts for key players, and it would be great if Clark is added to that list, although Florian Lejeune, who is on loan at Alaves, would fight for his place this summer if Clark departs for London.