Joey Barton responds to Jonson Clarke-Harris transfer question as Bristol Rovers decision made

Joey Barton has not ruled out Bristol Rovers making a move for Jonson Clarke-Harris, as he states that the club are in the market for one more player.

The former Rovers striker has been the name on every Gas’ fans lips for the past few weeks and now Barton has added fuel to the transfer speculation, when asked specifically if he was a target.

A whole host of League One outfits including one that has ‘come from nowhere’ are said to be in for the 29-year old. Rovers have signed 12 players this window, and have a striker as their last remaining piece of the jigsaw, ahead of a hopeful promotion push.

“We’re always looking to upgrade our team and we’re looking for a tip of the spear,” said Barton in the aftermath of the 2-1 defeat to Wycombe Wanderers.

“At this level, obviously, I don’t want to talk about other people’s players but those types of players are really valuable to a team that wants to get out of the division.

“We’re always looking to add quality players. From what I hear Jonno wants to come back in this direction due to his family. If there is a possibility to bring a player of that calibre to this club, we’d definitely be working in the background to try and make that happen.”

The Posh goalscorer has 75 goals in 152 appearances for the club and already has two League One goals this season for his current side, amid uncertainty over his future.

Manager Barton understands the complexity to the deal and hopes the club can make the signature happen.

He said: “The difficulty lies in the valuation, look we’re not Manchester City or Newcastle, we don’t have the opportunity to pull a barrel of oil out of the ground and sign a new striker or a centre-half for a couple hundred of million like they do.

“There’s a lot permutation between now and the window closing on Friday, we know what we need and what we’re looking for. Hopefully we can get something signed and sealed.”

By Harry Langstaff