Stoke City’s pursuit of a new striker is turning into a race against time as the transfer window deadline looms. Tom Cannon, a young striker from Leicester City, remains a key target for the Potters this summer. However, any potential deal for Cannon could carry significant risks for Stoke’s manager, Steven Schumacher, and his team.
Leicester’s manager, Steve Cooper, recently addressed Cannon’s future after the striker was left on the bench during Leicester’s 1-1 draw against Spurs in their Premier League opener. Cooper chose to substitute Jamie Vardy, the game’s goal scorer, with winger Stephy Mavididi rather than Cannon. Cooper’s comments suggest that a decision on Cannon’s availability won’t be made until the final hours of the transfer window, which puts Stoke in a precarious position. If they fail to secure Cannon, they might not have enough time to find an alternative striker, potentially hampering their Championship campaign until the transfer window reopens in January.
When questioned about Cannon’s future, Cooper said that he could provide a clearer answer closer to the end of the transfer window. He acknowledged Cannon’s potential, emphasizing the need to balance winning games with the development of younger players. While Cannon remains part of Leicester’s current plans, Cooper’s remarks indicate that his future with the club is uncertain until a final decision is made.
Cannon has been a top priority for Stoke this summer, even though he only started three league games last season as Leicester earned promotion from the Championship. With injuries to key strikers Jamie Vardy and Patson Daka, and a slow Premier League transfer window, Cannon has become Leicester’s only fit senior center-forward. Despite this, Cooper stated that Vardy was the preferred choice to start against Spurs, suggesting that Cannon was not seriously considered for the match.
Stoke City is facing stiff competition from other Championship clubs for Cannon’s signature but holds an advantage as they are reportedly willing to cover almost all of his wages. However, any move for Cannon is unlikely until Leicester resolves their own striker situation.