Stoke City received a severe jolt as they were thrashed by Manchester City 7-2 in the last match. It was supposed to be a tough match given City’s performance this season but no one would have imagined the way the Potters surrendered to Pep’s team.
Until the last match, Mark Hughes’ side’s performance against the big teams was worth the hype as they defeated Arsenal at the BET365 Stadium and also played out a 2-2 draw with Manchester United.
Hughes has been at the club since 2013 and had guided the club to three ninth-place finishes. However, last season was Hughes’ worst season till date, falling to the 13th place at the end of the season. This season could be make or break for him if he fails to meet expectations from the Stoke City faithful yet again.
Here is our list of the players Stoke City should target in the January transfer window.
Michy Batshuayi
Stoke City have been struggling for goals and Batshuayi should be able to chip in with valuable contributions. The Belgian international has had his difficulties at the Stamford Bridge this season and has been playing the second fiddle to Alvaro Morata.
He did have some opportunities for the Blues but looking at the current scenario, it seems he is not in the good books of Antonio Conte. Keeping in mind the World Cup in the next summer, Batshuayi would love to have some first team game time and Stoke City would be more than happy to offer him a chance to shine.
Peter Crouch has been used as a substitute mostly while Mame Diouf has been filling in the right wingback position. So there is enough room for Batshuayi to make his mark.
Fabian Delph
The English international could prove to be a very good signing if he is in form. Stoke brought in Darren Fletcher from West Brom on a free transfer but the absence of dominance in the middle of the pitch has been a stumbling block for them.
Delph’s all around ability would definitely help Stoke City in the physicality department. The 27-year-old is an impactful player and can be dangerous both as an enforcer and a creator. So a deal for him would definitely be something the Potters should try and get done.
Mathieu Debuchy
The Potters have been on the lookout for a right back and Debuchy could be a short-term solution to this problem. Hughes has used a number of players on the right side and Debuchy would be able to provide short-term relief to Hughes.
