After an exceptionally remarkable season in the National League, Altrincham may face the potential departure of Chris Conn-Clarke as Wigan Athletic and other teams show increasing interest in the player.
According to a report by Alan Nixon on his Patreon site, several football clubs are interested in signing Conn-Clarke this summer:
- Ipswich Town
- Peterborough United
- Portsmouth
- Mansfield Town
Additionally, Wigan Athletic have now also expressed interest in acquiring the 22-year-old player’s services during the upcoming transfer window.
Altrincham, a team in the third tier of English football, may struggle to keep their player if Ipswich, who just got promoted to the Premier League, make an offer. Ipswich, nicknamed the Tractor Boys, will likely be able to provide the Altrincham player with better terms and conditions. On the other hand, Wigan is geographically closest to the player, which gives them an advantage in the pursuit.
The player, a former youth prospect from Burnley, has finally found a consistent starting role at Altrincham in the fifth tier of English football. His performances have caught the attention of many clubs. Since joining Altrincham in June 2023, the player has scored 22 goals in 50 appearances, averaging nearly a goal every other game. His prolific form has rightfully earned him recognition from various teams interested in acquiring his services.
Chris Conn-Clarke 2023/24 Stats:
🆚 47 Games
⚽️ 23 Goals
🅰️ 12 AssistsOne of the best players to ever step foot in the National League that’s for sure.
Big summer ahead for him now. #AltyForAll🔴 pic.twitter.com/LNDlYAOzR6
— Callum Moseley 💻 (@CallumTDUK) April 28, 2024
After some unsuccessful spells at Chorley, Fleetwood Town, and Waterford, it’s great to see the 22-year-old player establish himself as a regular starter for his current club, Wigan Athletic. The Latics could add some real quality to an already talented attacking lineup, ahead of a crucial League One campaign under manager Shaun Maloney. Wigan had a relatively strong finish to the season, losing only twice in their final 10 league matches. Impressive 2-1 victories over Lincoln City and Portsmouth have given fans optimism for the upcoming season.
The addition of the 22-year-old’s attacking abilities could further boost that optimism. With increased budgets following the promotions of Portsmouth and Ipswich Town to the Premier League and Championship respectively, Wigan could face stiff competition from other clubs interested in signing the player. The significant transfer fee Ipswich will receive for their impressive season will likely exceed any offer Wigan can make to the 22-year-old.
Writer’s View
It is unclear which club would be the best fit for Conn-Clarke. While joining Wigan could provide him with regular playing time in League One right away, the opportunity to break through and establish himself as a star at Ipswich or Portsmouth is very enticing. Both Wigan and the Ipswich/Portsmouth options would likely involve loan deals to aid in Conn-Clarke’s development.However, settling in at Wigan and making the significant jump from the National League to League One may be the wisest choice. The difference in quality between those two divisions is substantial, but it is warranted for a player of Conn-Clarke’s caliber. He did not earn a professional contract with Burnley purely by chance.
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