Stoke City latest: Josh Laurent exit claim, Rak-Sakyi loan battle,

04/07/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City is gearing up for a significant summer of roster changes and strategic transfer decisions to strengthen their position in the Championship. Under the leadership of new manager Steven Schumacher, the team is actively engaging in the transfer market. Schumacher, in his inaugural summer as the Potters boss, has already secured notable signings such as goalkeeper Viktor Johansson from Rotherham United, seasoned center-back Ben Gibson from Norwich City, and dynamic wing-back Eric Bocat from Sint-Truiden.

Several first-team players have exited the club as their contracts expired, signaling a period of transition for the squad. Among the notable departures, center-back Matthew Baker has permanently moved to Newport County following a compensation agreement between the clubs, and young goalkeeper Tommy Simkin has embarked on a season-long loan to Walsall, starting on June 2.

Sheffield United rival Stoke City in race for Norwich City man

25/06/2024 Raymond 0

Sheffield United and Stoke City are both competing to sign Norwich City defender Sam McCallum. Sheffield United, preparing for their return to the Championship after a last-place finish in the Premier League, and Stoke City, who finished 17th last season, are keen on the 23-year-old left-back. McCallum played 29 Championship games for Norwich City last season and is set to become a free agent at the end of the month, making him an attractive target for both clubs. Despite financial constraints due to takeover talks, Sheffield United might still pursue McCallum if the terms are favorable.

Two chats that secured Stoke City’s second transfer of the summer

17/06/2024 Raymond 0

Ben Gibson revealed that he had candid conversations with his friend Jon Walters while deciding if Stoke City was the right club for him. The centre-back, leaving Norwich City after four years and a successful season finishing in the Championship play-off places, had several offers but wanted a clear picture of what was happening inside Stoke before committing.

Gibson emphasized the importance of the club’s direction over its facilities and history. “I’ve spoken about the magnitude of the club, the unbelievable owners, the facilities, the stadium, but what really matters to me is where are we heading?” he said. He made it clear that if Stoke’s aim was only to replicate last season or settle as a mid-table Championship team, he wouldn’t have signed. Gibson also spoke with head coach Steven Schumacher to ensure everyone at Stoke shared the same vision, noting that aligning with the manager’s style of play was crucial.

Sunderland should look to beat Norwich City to bargain QPR deal: View

06/06/2024 Raymond 0

Sunderland’s potential as serious promotion contenders next season hinges significantly on their performance in the upcoming summer transfer window. Despite enduring a challenging season marked by managerial changes and inconsistency, there remains undeniable potential within their squad. The team flirted with play-off contention for a while but ultimately fell to a disappointing 16th-place finish. Now, the club is in search of a new manager, a process that has taken time but is crucial for their future success. The incoming manager will need to navigate their first transfer window astutely to bolster the squad’s chances. Retaining key talents like Jobe Bellingham and Jack Clarke, who are attracting considerable interest, would be a significant boost.

The squad’s youthful nature suggests that adding experienced players could be vital for their campaign next season. One player Sunderland should closely monitor is Chris Willock, a standout performer in the Championship. Willock, who has been instrumental for QPR, contributing 20 goals and 22 assists over 144 games, appears to be on the move as his contract with the club expires this summer. His skills, versatility, and creativity have been invaluable to QPR, but with his departure seemingly imminent, Sunderland could seize the opportunity for a bargain acquisition.

Dom Matteo says £5m Leeds man is working ‘the hardest’ in training, yet to see the best of him

26/05/2024 Raymond 0

Dominic Matteo believes Leeds United fans have yet to see the full potential of Ilia Gruev, one of Daniel Farke’s signings, who has been working exceptionally hard in training since arriving at Elland Road. As Leeds prepares to face Southampton at Wembley on Sunday for a place in the Premier League, they must alter their approach after losing both previous encounters this season.

Gruev, who joined in January, has become a key player and is expected to be in the starting lineup. Matteo praises Gruev’s dedication, noting that despite not always being flashy, he excels at the fundamentals and has the potential to contribute more goals. One of the season’s highlights was Gruev’s superb free-kick, which led to a 4-0 victory over Norwich City, showcasing his quick decision-making and ability to perform under pressure.

Leeds United star Charlie Cresswell’s Land Rover smashes into police car outside stadium before team’s must-win semi-final playoff

16/05/2024 Raymond 0

Ahead of Leeds United’s crucial play-off semi-final, a Land Rover belonging to defender Charlie Cresswell collided with a police car outside the club’s stadium, Elland Road. The incident occurred as players were preparing to report for the vital match against Norwich City. Shocking images captured the aftermath, depicting a severely damaged West Yorkshire Police patrol car alongside Cresswell’s Land Rover Defender. The circumstances surrounding the collision, including whether Cresswell was driving the £60,000 vehicle, remain unclear.

49ers are now optimistic they can sell four Leeds United players permanently this summer

11/05/2024 Raymond 0

Leeds United faces a hectic summer ahead, regardless of their success in securing promotion. Their journey begins with the Championship play-off campaign, kicking off with a two-legged semi-final against Norwich City. These playoffs offer a shot at redemption for Leeds, serving as a second opportunity for an immediate return to the Premier League after faltering in their final six matches, missing out on a top-two finish.