Stoke City are currently preparing for their first season back in the Sky Bet Championship after 10 years in the Premier League. Their relegation last season saw that end, and Gary Rowett now has the job of helping the Potters back to the top flight at the first time of asking.
Their work in the transfer window so far has gone down brilliantly for the fans, and there is more good news on the horizon for them, as they prepare a second bid for Aston Villa defender James Chester.
The Birmingham Mail reports that Stoke City had a bid somewhere in the region of £7 million rejected over the last week, but the Potters are keen on signing the Wales international, and are preparing a second bid for Chester.
James Chester has been at Villa Park since August 2016, after joining the club from West Brom for an undisclosed fee. Although no-one knows the actual fee that Villa paid, it is said to be more than the £8 million that the Baggies paid to sign Chester from Hull City.
Aston Villa’s financial difficulties had left Stoke thinking that they may be able to sign Chester at a discounted price, but Steve Bruce’s club are reportedly still holding out for £10 million.
It is clear to see why Stoke City are so keen on signing James Chester, with the 29-year-old boasting a wealth of experience.
Chester graduated through the youth academy at Manchester United, and has also represented the likes of Peterborough United, Carlisle United and Plymouth Argyle on loan.
He also has 31 appearances for the senior Welsh team, including helping them to the Semi Final of the 2016 European Championships.
