With Expectations of a New Signing, Stoke City Aims to Strengthen Their Defense
• Stoke City wants to continue reinforcing their defense for the present and future
• August has begun, and the EFL Championship is very close to starting
By Oscar Cortes
As speculated in recent days, The Potters want to secure a central defender. Ideally, this player would be young enough to be part of a long-term project for the team, pairing well with Ben Gibson in central defense for the upcoming season and future.
Rumors also suggest that Stoke City might re-enter the race for Luke McNally. Having been on loan from Burnley to Stoke City last season, he could return to the team. However, Stoke City is also reportedly competing with several clubs for this Cypriot central defender in the current transfer window.
READ MORE: Another Possible Central Defender Could Reinforce Stoke City
Exploring the Belgian Market Once Again, Stoke City Shows Interest
This time, the focus is on Stelios Andreou, a 22-year-old player who is one of the biggest promises in Cypriot football. He has already played over 100 professional matches at a young age. Andreou currently plays for R Charleroi SC in the Belgian First Division. With a contract until June 2026, a potential move in this transfer window is quite feasible.
Teams such as West Brom Albion, Cardiff City, and Stoke City are closely monitoring this player. With a market value of around 1.25 million euros, he represents a reasonably priced and accessible option for The Potters.
Additionally, the team is expected to reinforce the midfield. So far, Stoke City has made four signings: three defensive and one attacking, with the recent acquisition of Sam Gallagher.
All these developments are expected in the coming weeks, as August has already started and The Potters are only days away from beginning a new season in the EFL Championship. Under Steve Schumacher’s guidance, they aim to secure a spot in the Premier League once again.