Days before the start of the new Championship season, Stoke City has faced disappointment in their quest to bolster the forward line. The club had been making strides in signing Jeremy Livolant, a former Bordeaux winger who is currently a free agent. However, StokeonTrentLive has learned that a pre-existing injury has derailed the potential deal for the 26-year-old player.
Initially in talks at Clayton Wood to finalize terms, Livolant’s arrival seemed imminent before concerns over his undisclosed injury forced Stoke to withdraw their interest. While Livolant is on the path to recovery, the timeframe is not fast enough for him to be match-fit, prompting Stoke to seek alternatives.
Known for his versatility across attacking positions, Livolant spent a solitary season with Bordeaux in Ligue 2 before demonstrating his abilities by scoring six goals and providing seven assists amid the club’s relegation struggles. Stoke’s recent acquisition of Sam Gallagher from Blackburn Rovers was aimed at strengthening their attacking options, albeit amid concerns over his fitness following an injury setback during his debut.
As the season opener against Coventry City looms, Stoke’s focus now shifts to finding a suitable addition to their forward ranks given Livolant’s unavailability and Gallagher’s injury concerns.
