Stoke City have engaged in discussions with Fulham regarding a potential deal for Jay Stansfield, who has been a target for Sunderland. After an impressive season on loan at Birmingham City where he scored 13 goals and provided three assists in 47 appearances, Stansfield was rumored to be heading back to the League One club. However, Fulham manager Marco Silva affirmed that the striker is an important part of their plans for the upcoming season despite the speculations.

Despite Silva’s reassurances, Stoke is now reportedly in talks with Fulham for a possible permanent move for Stansfield. Stoke is looking to bolster their attacking options following recent departures, including Tyrese Campbell and Wesley. Although they have acquired Sam Gallagher from Blackburn Rovers, Stoke is still seeking to add another forward before the transfer window closes.

In a separate development, Sheffield United is reportedly interested in offering Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain a chance to exit his current stint with Besiktas in Turkey. The former Arsenal and Liverpool midfielder, who joined Besiktas last summer, is open to a season-long loan move to England. Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder is eager to bring Oxlade-Chamberlain back to England, with the Blades also eyeing Crystal Palace’s Jesurun Rak-Sakyi.