West Brom winger James McClean has moved to Midlands Championship rivals Stoke City in a transfer that will cost an initial £5 million. Both teams will be looking to make some big changes mounting the challenge to get back into the Premier League after suffering relegation heartbreaks last season. McClean joins his former teammate Darren Fletcher to add some experience to the cause.
McClean is Stoke’s fourth signing
Stoke have already added Benik Afobe, Adam Federici and Oghenekaro Etebo to their ranks as they look for an instant return to top-flight football. The Irish international is expected to add some much-needed determination to get out of the Championship, especially with some of last season’s players already a distant memory. Xherdan Shaqiri leads the exodus, having joined Liverpool after they activated his release clause. Glen Johnson has left the club as his contract came to an end and Ramadan Sobhi has also moved to Huddersfield.
Could Butland be on his way out?
Perhaps more surprising was the transfer of 35-year-old Lee Grant to Manchester United, whilst the first choice goalkeeper Jack Butland is also expected to attract a big bid. Rumours have emerged that Chelsea could make a move for him if Courtois completes his desired move to Real Madrid. Butland has been linked with transfers for the last few years and now that Stoke has been relegated, this is probably the right time for him to move to further his career.
Butland has spent the summer in Russia as part of the England World Cup squad but now the tournament is over, negotiations for his signature could start very soon. A move to Chelsea would be a great trede for the Stoke goalkeeper to continue his development.
A difficult campaign promotion awaits Stoke
The fight to win promotion will be a very difficult one and there are a number of big teams that will be trying their hardest to get back into the Premier League. This includes Stoke’s rivals Aston Villa, Wigan Athletic, Blackburn, Bolton, Middlesbrough, Swansea and West Brom who are all teams that have enjoyed spells in the Premier League.
