Steven Schumacher

Stoke City transfer state of play as transfer window opens

14/06/2024 Raymond 0

The summer transfer window officially opens today, and Stoke City has already secured two new signings. Rotherham United goalkeeper Viktor Johansson and free agent center-back Ben Gibson, formerly of Norwich, have joined the club. Additionally, contracts for backup goalkeeper Frank Fielding and left-back Enda Stevens have been extended.

This summer’s transfer activity is expected to differ significantly from last year’s, with fewer deals and more familiar names being brought in. Sporting director Jon Walters has been actively scouting games, while manager Steven Schumacher has clearly defined his requirements. A notable change in the transfer department saw Jared Dublin replaced by Lee Darnbrough as head of recruitment, bringing in valuable experience from his time at Hull City, West Brom, Burnley, and Norwich.

Key player movements include the departure of Tyrese Campbell after eight years with Stoke, while Jordan Thompson’s contract option was exercised, and Enda Stevens re-signed for another year. Stoke’s focus now shifts to finding a main striker to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.

QPR concern not over despite £1m-a-year Stoke City deal: View

13/06/2024 Raymond 0

With two years remaining on his contract, securing him with QPR until the end of the 2025/26 season, it’s suggested that the club would demand a fee of £5-7 million for Jake Clarke-Salter’s services this summer. Despite Stoke City’s recent acquisition of center-back Ben Gibson, QPR should still be concerned about the Potters’ interest in Clarke-Salter.

Given the rigors of a full season, it would be a significant challenge for any club to manage with just three center-backs. Stoke often plays with two center-backs, leaving them with only one player to cover both positions. Considering the likelihood of injuries and suspensions throughout the season, this situation would put them at a high risk of selection issues. Hence, it would be prudent for the club to bring in another central defender to alleviate the pressure on their current options, providing more flexibility for rotation and reducing the risk of unwanted absences.

Stoke City starting XI for next season as Steven Schumacher gets early business done

09/06/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City has bid farewell to five key players from their starting lineup, determined to promptly fill these gaps. Goalkeeper Daniel Iversen, right-back Ki-Jana Hoever, center-half Luke McNally, and attacking midfielder Luke Cundle have all returned to their parent clubs after their loan spells, while striker Tyrese Campbell departs at the end of his contract.

Junior Tchamadeu is set to replace Hoever, with Lynden Gooch providing competition. Seventeen-year-old Sol Sidibe, recently called up to England’s under-18 team, is expected to be a major part of the first team squad during pre-season, potentially sharing minutes with midfielders Jordan Thompson, Wouter Burger, Josh Laurent, Ben Pearson, and Lewis Baker. Viktor Johansson has joined as the new number one goalkeeper from Rotherham United.

In defense, Ben Gibson joins Michael Rose and Ben Wilmot. Left-back Enda Stevens has extended his contract, but given his injury history, additional cover may be sought. The center-forward position remains a top priority, with Ryan Mmaee and Niall Ennis eager to prove themselves, and youngsters Emre Tezgel and Nathan Lowe aiming to catch the coach’s attention.

The transfer window remains open, and Stoke City expects further player movements, both in and out, marking a proactive shift from the previous year’s unsettled pre-season.

Every Premier League and Championship free agent for Stoke City to consider so far this summer

02/06/2024 Raymond 0

The free agent market is attracting significant attention from both Premier League and Championship clubs, as managers and recruitment chiefs seek out bargains, gambles, and hidden gems. Stoke City has already initiated their summer activity by signing goalkeeper Viktor Johansson, taking advantage of a relegation release clause. Head coach Steven Schumacher and sporting director Jon Walters are focused on enhancing the first team squad by adding balance and quality, particularly seeking one or two strikers and a center-back.

Several Premier League clubs have yet to confirm their retained lists following the conclusion of the 2023/24 campaign. In the Championship, Cardiff City and Leeds United have also not published their lists. Below is a summary of the current group of players without a contract beyond June 30.

If Wouter Burger leaves Stoke City for Spurs, Coventry City could hold ideal replacement: View

26/05/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City is gearing up for the 2024/25 Championship season, determined to improve on their lackluster performance from the previous year. Finishing in 17th place and narrowly avoiding relegation by six points, the team faces significant pressure to climb the standings under the leadership of manager Steven Schumacher, who is entering his first full season at the helm.

With the summer transfer window open and the club’s retained list announced, Stoke is focusing on strengthening key areas of their squad to ensure a successful season ahead. However, the team’s plans might be disrupted as one of their standout players, Wouter Burger, has attracted interest from Premier League clubs. Tottenham Hotspur and Sheffield United are reportedly keen on signing Burger, who joined Stoke just last year on a four-year contract.

Burger’s arrival at Stoke’s bet365 Stadium was unexpected, given his links to higher-tier clubs. Nonetheless, his decision to join the Potters has proven wise. The 23-year-old played 39 Championship games, scoring three goals and providing four assists, becoming a crucial player for Schumacher. Despite his recent arrival, Burger’s leadership qualities shone through, as he captained the team in Josh Laurent’s absence on nine occasions.

First Stoke City transfer of new era wins international call-up

23/05/2024 Raymond 0

Congratulations to Viktor Johansson, the new Stoke City goalkeeper, who has been named in the latest Sweden squad. The 25-year-old recently transferred from Rotherham United to the bet365 Stadium after head coach Steven Schumacher and new sporting director Jon Walters activated a relegation release clause, reportedly around £1 million.

Johansson earned his first senior international cap in October, coming on at halftime against Moldova. He has now been called up for friendlies against Denmark and Serbia. This continues a significant period for him personally, as his partner is also expecting their first child. Johansson hopes that his move to Stoke will bolster his international prospects.

Additionally, Johansson’s new Stoke teammate, Jordan Thompson, has been named in the Northern Ireland squad for their matches against Spain and Andorra.