Stoke City have already made a significant transfer decision this summer as they aim to climb the Championship table next season under Steven Schumacher. The Potters have signed standout goalkeeper Viktor Johansson and dynamic wing-back Eric Junior Bocat from Rotherham United and Sint-Truiden, respectively. This is just the beginning of what is expected to be a busy transfer market period for Schumacher as he shapes his squad for the 2024/25 campaign.
Several first-team players, including Tyrese Campbell and Ciaran Clark, have left following the expiry of their contracts. Young centre-backs Matthew Baker and David Okagbue have moved to Newport County and Walsall on permanent deals, respectively, while promising goalkeeper Tommy Simkin has joined Walsall on a season-long loan.
Schumacher recognized the need for a new centre-back well before the transfer window opened. Although Stoke were linked with QPR’s Jake Clarke-Salter, they opted instead to sign Norwich City’s Ben Gibson on a free transfer last month. This decision appears increasingly prudent, as Clarke-Salter’s current valuation has reportedly reached £10 million. Stoke can now feel confident in their choice to secure Gibson, avoiding the steep cost associated with Clarke-Salter.