In January 2013, Stoke City, then a Premier League outfit, made a significant move by acquiring 19-year-old goalkeeper Jack Butland from Birmingham City.
Despite his young age and Championship background, Butland had already gained experience in international football, having represented Great Britain at the Olympics and earned a full England cap in the summer of 2012.
The signing turned out to be a remarkably astute one, with Stoke securing Butland’s services for just £3.5 million. Over the following years, the Bristol-born goalkeeper flourished at The bet365 Stadium, establishing himself as one of the top keepers in the country.
Given his status as a full-fledged England international at the tender age of 19, Stoke’s ability to acquire Butland for such a modest fee represented a remarkable piece of business. Throughout his seven-year tenure with the club, Butland consistently proved his worth and contributed significantly to Stoke’s success.