Stoke City is gearing up for a busy transfer window as manager Steven Schumacher reshapes the squad for the upcoming season. Having already secured key signings such as goalkeeper Viktor Johansson and center-back Ben Gibson, and with the imminent arrival of Eric Junior Bocat from Sint-Truiden, Schumacher is also focused on streamlining the team by sanctioning exits for several players whose contracts are expiring.
Among those set to depart are Tyrese Campbell, Ciaran Clark, Wesley, Tom Edwards, and D’Margio Wright-Phillips. Additionally, Schumacher is expected to send several young talents out on loan to gain valuable experience and playing time. Here are three players likely to seek loan moves before the transfer window closes on August 30th.
**Tommy Simkin**
Tommy Simkin, a promising goalkeeper who has been with Stoke since he was 12, made his senior debut last season at 19. Despite being a regular for the club’s U18 and U21 teams, Simkin’s need for consistent first-team action saw him loaned to AFC Fylde and Solihull Moors. His stint at Solihull Moors was particularly noteworthy, with 19 appearances and an impressive performance until he was recalled due to injuries in the Stoke squad. With new signings pushing him down the pecking order, another loan spell could provide the crucial match experience he needs to develop further.
**Nikola Jojic**
Nikola Jojic arrived at Stoke last summer with high expectations following an impressive season in the Serbian Superliga. However, his impact was minimal, making only a handful of appearances before being relegated to the U21 team. Despite his potential, Jojic has struggled to secure a spot in the first team under Schumacher. Given the competition for wing positions, a loan move abroad seems the most viable option for Jojic to gain the necessary experience and prove his worth.
**Liam McCarron**
Liam McCarron joined Stoke from Leeds United two years ago but has found it challenging to break into the first team. Initially promising, his stint was marred by managerial changes and subsequent loan spells that did not yield the desired playing time. Despite a brief first-team appearance in the FA Cup, McCarron remains behind other left-back options in the squad. With one year left on his contract, a loan move would offer McCarron a chance to play regularly and either secure a future at Stoke or attract interest from other clubs for a potential transfer next summer.
In conclusion, as Steven Schumacher continues to fine-tune his squad, loan moves for players like Simkin, Jojic, and McCarron appear to be strategic decisions. These loans will provide the players with essential game time and development opportunities while allowing Stoke City to evaluate their progress for future inclusion in the first team.
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