The £17.5m release clause NUFC could activate after versatile attacker is offered Howe's way

According to The Athletic, a £17.5m release clause remains 'active' in Maxwel Cornet's contract following Burnley's relegation from the Premier League.

On Saturday, The Chronicle's Lee Ryder revealed that the Ivory Coast international had been offered Eddie Howe's way, suggesting he is an option waiting to be explored if moves for leading targets fail to materialise.

Cornet scored nine goals in 26 appearances for the Clarets last season - a one in three record that's pretty impressive in a goal-shy Burnley side who endured a dismal season.

Injuries impacted his momentum over the second half of 2021/22, but he showed patches of explosive form and is a versatile attacker who's able to operate down either flank or up top - something we could benefit from given we are looking to strengthen in both areas.

That said, all of the above means very little if Eddie Howe doesn't deem him the right fit or a significant upgrade on our current options.

The 25-year-old is believed to be a back-up option at Chelsea and has also received interest from newly-promoted Nottingham Forest, who've reportedly had a bid rejected by Burnley.