Bae transferred to the Potters from Daejeon Hana Citizen last summer and had an exceptional first season at the bet365 Stadium. His significant contributions were instrumental in helping the team ensure their survival in the Championship.
| Bae Jun-ho’s Championship stats for Stoke City last season (according to Sofascore) | |
| Appearances | 38 |
| Starts | 25 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Shots per game | 0.7 |
| Assists | 5 |
| Big chances created | 8 |
| Passing accuracy | 83% |
The 20-year-old midfielder was acknowledged for his impressive performances by winning the club’s Player of the Year award. Additionally, he made his senior debut for South Korea at the international level last month.
Stoke City may struggle to retain Bae this summer, as Dutch outlet 1908.nl reports that Feyenoord is planning to make a move for him. Bae is reportedly eager to join the Rotterdam club, where he would have the opportunity to play in the UEFA Champions League.
However, according to Stoke-on-Trent Live, the Potters have “no plans” to sell Bae, who is under contract until the summer of 2027, unless they receive a substantial offer. There is “complete confidence” that he will remain part of Steven Schumacher’s squad for the upcoming season.
Carlton Palmer urges Stoke City to hold on to Bae Jun-ho
“Bae Jun-ho had a fantastic season with Stoke City last season, he was crowned the club’s Player of the Year,” Palmer said whilst speaking to FLW.
“Through his performances, the 20-year-old has been attracting attention from elsewhere.
“It’s been a remarkable 18 months for Bae – he came to attention at the U20’s World Cup with South Korea, moved to England and won his first senior international call-up, and he will be part of South Korea’s plans to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
“Stoke have no plans to sell Bae, barring an incredible offer.
“They think he’s going to be a huge asset, he got Player of the Year and Schumacher is building a squad to get promoted next year.
“He’s on a four-year contract that was signed last August, obviously he’ll be flattered to see the likes of Feyenoord interested in him, and with Feyenoord in the Champions League, that would be incredible for him.
“But there are no plans for Stoke to sell, and they’ve made that very, very clear, so if Feyenoord want the player, they’re going to have to break the bank to get him out.”
Stoke City must not sell Bae Jun-ho this summer
It is hard to disagree with Palmer that Stoke should reject any bids for Bae this summer, unless Feyenoord makes a significant offer.
Bae’s performances were a highlight in an otherwise disappointing season for the Potters, and he will be crucial as Schumacher aims to improve the team’s standings next term.
The midfielder will not only be a significant asset for Stoke on the pitch next season, but his valuation is likely to increase if he continues to impress. This could result in a much larger profit for the club in the future.
While Stoke may need to sell players this summer to balance the books and provide Schumacher with funds to strengthen the squad, Bae is one player they should not consider cashing in on.