Rotherham United have confirmed the release of attacker Jonson Clarke-Harris, after the termination of his contract via mutual consent. That now means that the ex-Peterborough, Oldham and Bristol Rovers forward is available on a free transfer.
Many clubs across the EFL will be looking to dip into the market for an attacker and with somebody of Clarke-Harris’ experience and attacking ability available on the market, he could be an option clubs look towards.
In this article, we’ve picked five clubs that could be realistic destinations for the 30-year-old, with options across League One and League Two to cover as a move in that sort of level range seems more likely.
Bradford City
Despite possessing many attacking options already, not all of them will remain at Valley Parade this summer. Furthermore, the Bantams are looking to make a strong impact following promotion to League One which could make the signing of Clarke-Harris a good bit of business.
Already completing a move for Stephen Humphrys, adding further to their attacking options may be a move that Graham Alexander’s Bradford take this summer. The Valley Parade outfit may also look to clear off any forward players that might not make the cut now that the Bantams are back in the third tier.
As well as this, Andy Cook is aging and will return off the back of an ACL injury. Furthermore, with Will Swan’s versatile nature, he may be potentially stronger in a variety of other positions.
This would make a move for Clarke-Harris, even on a short-term move, potentially beneficial for the Bantams. It would also increase their attacking quality this summer. Therefore, it is certainly a possibility that could be taken up.
Bristol Rovers
A return to the South-West with a side Jonson Clarke-Harris enjoyed a two-season spell leading to 49 goals in just the 84 appearances with The Gas wouldn’t be off the cards this summer. This move would come at a time where attacking options of true quality look slightly short for Bristol Rovers.
With both Scott Sinclair and Chris Martin leaving, alongside the further option of Jevani Brown, it only really leaves the Gas with Promise Omochere as an out-and-out attacker, alongside the further option of Ruel Sotiriou, whom of which are both better in other attacking areas.
Bristol Rovers will certaintly be looking for some fresh attacking quality this summer in their quest for an instant promotion back into League One next season. With Clarke-Harris available on a free transfer as well as a pretty strong financial backing, the Gas should definitely be looking further into a move for their former star.
Oldham Athletic
EFL new-boys Oldham will certainly have some financial firepower and big transfer ambitions after reaching League Two once again, but they know after many departures a big striking outlet to lead The Latics forward next year.
With his early days spent at Oldham, Clarke-Harris would definitely not say no to a return, with Boundary Park being the location that the now 30-year-old attacker really started to take off in his footballing career, and as the Latics return to League Two, they’re in need of attackers as three strikers have moved on this summer.
The experience and also attacking quality that Clarke-Harris would bring to newboys Oldham could be a massive forwards step. A move to the lower end of League Two might not be the dream destination for the ex-Millers forward. But it would give him a chance to really prove himself to the English footballing pyramid, back at one of the places it all started years ago.
MK Dons
Although MK Dons have already made two signings to bolster their attacking options, a move for Clarke-Harris may be beneficial as the Dons look to push for that eventual return back to League One under the guidance of Paul Warne.
With Aaron Collins as definite competition for the striker spot alongside Scott Hogan, new boy Hepburn-Murphy and also Callum Hendry, it is certain that MK have plenty of attacking threats. However, with Clarke-Harris now around for nothing, Warne could make a swoop to add to his options.
The 30-year-old has of course worked with MK boss Warne at Rotherham, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if a reunion was to be on the cards, with MK looking for that all-round quality striker who could really become a big part of something special at Stadium MK next season. Could Clarke-Harris be that man, or have the Dons already got what they need, though?
Barnsley
Staying in the same vicinity as Rotherham, making a switch to Barnsley which is just 30 minutes up the road could be a wonderful move in the making for Clarke-Harris. The Tykes know they have to prepare next season, and making a bold move for Clarke-Harris could be on.
With Keillor-Dunn having a tremendous season last year, transfer interest will surely arrive for him. Max Watters is in alongside Connor Barrett, who still seems slightly unproven, and the arrival of Reyes Cleary arguably brings some confidence in attack. However, making a move for 30-year-old Clarke-Harris would be a no brainer bringing leadership, goals and experience to the Barnsley attack.
Statistics and also general goalscoring records also prove the worth Clarke-Harris might have. However, The Tykes may already have what they need and Conor Hourihane might be happy with his attack already. Despite this, the option of signing a strong attacker with a brilliant attacking return might be a strong suggestion, and it could be on the cards.
Where should Jonson Clarke-Harris go?
With these five options already on the board, alongside potential interest elsewhere, who knows where the 30-year-old attacker may end up. Somebody else without a mention in this article, such as Peterborough or a Cambridge may come in, or a top-end League One side could do the same.
But, where do you think Clarke-Harris should go following his release from Rotherham? Let us know your opinions down in the comments below!
