Viktor Johansson

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.

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.

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.

Manager admits to “huge interest” in Sheffield United transfer target amid Leeds United, Stoke City links

29/04/2024 Raymond 0

Viktor Johansson, the talented goalkeeper once eyed by Sheffield United, is poised to depart Rotherham United following their relegation, according to manager Steve Evans. Johansson’s anticipated exit comes with a reduced transfer fee, believed to be approximately £750,000, owing to a relegation release clause in his contract. With his exceptional shot-stopping abilities, Johansson is expected to attract interest from several clubs, including Leeds United and Stoke City. Despite Sheffield United’s prior hesitations about his distribution skills, Johansson’s Championship experience and modest transfer fee may present an enticing opportunity for potential suitors.

Stoke City eyeing up Rotherham United transfer raid amid £1m release clause

21/04/2024 Raymond 0

Viktor Johansson, the Swedish goalkeeper, has been a standout performer for Rotherham United amid a challenging Championship season, which has seen them languishing at the bottom of the table and already relegated to League One. Johansson joined Rotherham as a free agent in September 2020, signing a two-year contract after his stint with Leicester City. Despite not making any appearances for Leicester’s senior team, he featured prominently for their under-21’s side in various competitions. Making his debut for Rotherham in a 2-1 victory against Preston North End in 2020, Johansson swiftly established himself as the primary goalkeeper, accumulating over 140 appearances for the club. During his tenure, he has garnered numerous individual awards, including Young Player of the Season and Player of the Year accolades. Moreover, Johansson played a pivotal role in Rotherham’s triumph in the 2021/22 EFL Trophy, orchestrating victories in penalty shootouts on the path to clinching the trophy at Wembley Stadium. With Rotherham’s relegation confirmed, speculation surrounding Johansson’s departure has intensified, with Sheffield United among the clubs reportedly interested in acquiring his services.