In recent days, it's been reported that Stoke City is highly focused on both the current season and the remaining days of the transfer window. Stoke City is carefully analyzing and exploring possible options in the market before it closes. Several teams are also interested in players that Stoke City has on their radar.
There is talk that Stoke City might reach an agreement to sign a new defender. However, this would likely be a loan deal rather than a permanent transfer.
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The Scottish Right-Back Who Could Join Stoke City
The player in question is Max Johnston, a 20-year-old who currently plays for Sturm Graz in Austria. Johnston has shown great promise, demonstrating high-level performance on the field and potential to be a fantastic star in the future. As a Scottish right-back, he contributes both defensively and offensively.
Johnston could be on the move during this summer transfer window. While Sturm Graz doesn't consider him an undisputed starter, several clubs are interested in securing him on loan. Stoke City, Swansea, and Oxford are all vying for Johnston, but his future remains uncertain. There's a good chance that Stoke City will make a move for him before the window closes.
Stoke City, Swansea and Oxford are chasing a deal to sign Sturm Graz defender Max Johnston on loan before the close of the transfer window. Several other European sides are also keen on the Scottish right-back.
— We are Stoke (@weare_stoke) August 15, 2024
Source: Football Insider
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Looking back at his last season, Johnston played over 30 matches at the highest competitive level with Sturm Graz. He participated in the UEFA Champions League qualifying rounds, though the Austrian club was ultimately eliminated. He also featured in the UEFA Europa League, where the team didn't advance past the group stage and ended up playing in the Conference League. In that competition, the 20-year-old defender played four matches, totaling 200 minutes.
During the 2023-24 season, Johnston provided only three assists, but he left a strong impression as a central defender. It remains to be seen what the future holds for this Scottish football prospect and whether Stoke City will be able to secure him for the current season.