Stoke City are reportedly looking at the possibility of signing winger Aaron Lennon in the January transfer window.
The England international has lost his first-team spot in the last few months. A number of injuries in the last year have not helped his case. It appears that he may not return to the first-team spot on a regular basis as long as Mauricio Pochettino remains the manager. Further, the Spurs boss is also keen on trimming the squad, which he managed to some extent during the summer. As a result, Lennon could be available for around £ 7 million during January.
Stoke have made an inconsistent start to the season under Mark Hughes, but they remain in with a shout to qualify for the Europa league. It will be a tremendous achievement considering the club’s small transfer budget. Hughes has done extremely well especially in the loan market to get players like Victor Moses, who have played a key role so far. Stoke are ninth in the table above the likes of Tottenham, Everton, and Liverpool. Keen to maintain this form, Hughes is reportedly keen to strengthen the squad in January. Even though Tottenham want around £ 7 million for Lennon, who has featured in 21 matches for England since his debut in 2006, Stoke believe that they can sign him for less.
It is understood that Hughes and Stoke City are not the only clubs competing for Lennon’s signature. QPR, who have made a real difference to the league table in the last few weeks, are also looking at him. The London outfit have the advantage of location and also the manager Harry Redknapp, who has worked with Lennon in the past. At just 27 years of age, Lennon appears to be in the prime of his career. He came to Tottenham in a £ 1 million deal several years ago.