Stoke City might need to get back into the market to sign a new striker after news emerged that Wilfried Bony will be off to Besiktas once Mark Hughes gives an all-clear. The big Ivorian’s Premier League career spiralled once he joined Manchester City, as he failed to make the grade. After a difficult season at the Etihad, he made the move to Stoke City in the summer on a loan deal. The move seemed to be an ideal one on paper with Stoke City’s much more direct approach expected to suit the player’s natural instincts. But it hasn’t been the case and after falling out of favour he is on the verge of a move abroad.
With limited options at their disposal, Stoke will certainly look to add before they let go of the striker. Let us take a look at 3 possible alternatives Stoke can look to sign with the imminent departure of the striker.
SAIDO BERAHINO
The wantaway West Bromwich Albion striker seems to be on the brink of ending his Hawthorn misery and after rejecting a contract extension of £60,000-per week seems to be hell bent on leaving this time around. The Englishman has truckloads of potential which has not yet been sufficiently tapped. And with his finishing prowess and his eye for goal along with his ability to play as a secondary striker and get involved in the approach play, this is an option Stoke should and are looking into.
JERMAIN DEFOE
West Ham and Crystal Palace seem to have failed to lure the excellent goalscorer from the precariously placed Sunderland in this window. It is quite clear if there is a team which needs Defoe now, it is Sunderland.
But the player might have been tired of saving the team from embarrassment time and again. Sunderland would seemingly be dead against selling but the financial situation they are in, a surprise sizeable bid has a chance of making them reconsider given the number of positions they can bolster with the money.
MICHY BATSHUAYI
This might be a far-fetched one but the Belgian has failed to get a look-in in this Chelsea side who have looked ideal Champion material. Diego Costa’s form and impeccable physical condition have seen his chances almost at nil. And with Conte preferring Hazard up front in Costa’s rare absence aligned with the fact Llorente is reportedly on his way in, there is little hope for the youngster this season. A loan move will be likely if Stoke decide to test the water.
