Stoke City have had a poor campaign this season in the Premier League. After having consistently led his side to the 9th-placed finish over the past three seasons, manager Mark Hughes will feel some pressure at the end of the season considering that the Potters are set to finish in the bottom-half of the table.
Stoke find themselves at 14th position currently and with just a game left to be played, it is unlikely that they will manage to break into the top ten. A season that has been marred by inconsistencies and injuries to key personnel, there are no doubts Hughes will be wanting to turn things around next campaign.
The transfers that Stoke completed in the past two windows have been less of a hit and more of a miss. While Joe Allen and Bruno Martins Indi have been good, the likes of Wilfried Bony, Saido Berahino and Ramadan Sobhi have disappointed badly. Ahead of next summer, Stoke will need to get their transfer dealings spot on if they are to return to the top half of the table for the upcoming season. And here is a predicted line-up for Stoke next season, factoring in potential exits and new faces that come in:
The young shot-stopper hardly played over the course of the season due to a long-term injury, but returned recently and hasn’t skipped a beat. Will be the Potters’ No.1 next season.
The former Liverpool man has had a decent season for Stoke and Hughes might stick with the experienced right-back for the upcoming campaign.
A lot has been speculated about his potential exit in the summer with Newcastle United reportedly interested. But with Stoke set to offer him a new and improved contract, expect him to stay put.
The Dutchman has impressed heavily in his loan spell from Porto and Stoke remain confident of signing him in the summer on a permanent move. Will be a great addition if pulled off.
Another Dutchman in the backline who has been impressive over the course of the season, Pieters will hold on to his place at left-back.
The 23-year old Liverpool midfielder is set for a summer exit from Anfield and Stoke are monitoring his situation. Hasn’t been afforded the chances by Jurgen Klopp, but much like Joe Allen, he could prove to be a shrewd addition. With Charlie Adam’s age and Gianelli Imbula’s impending exit, he has the chances to become a first team regular.
The Irishman remains a key cog in the midfield and will bring in the necessary experience on to the pitch.
The talismanic Swiss international has been excellent for Stoke when not injured. If he manages to stay fit for the whole season, he can be the difference maker for Hughes’ side.
The last summer’s signing has settled in nicely and has prospered in his debut season at the Britannia. No way he is going to be replaced from the line-up.
Has been Stoke’s biggest threat in front of goal and is invaluable to the team. Should be the first-choice on left flank.
A surprise name, much like Ramadan Sobhi last season, Stoke have identified this 25-year old striker who plays in Africa for Wydad Athletic as a potential target. Jebor has scored 17 goals in 25 games for his club this season and has attracted interest from French outfit Lille. An unknown quantity, will be cheap and considering his goal return, he may prove to be a better option than the likes of Saido Berahino and Mame Diouf.
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