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Erik Pieters – PSV to Stoke (£3m)
What’s the story? Pieters has wanted to test himself in the Premier League for some time and Stoke didn’t own a single full back capable of adding width in attack.
Is the price right? Excellent value assuming he can regain fitness having only been fit for about two months of the last twelve.
Why sign him? Stoke desperately needed width and overlapping from their full backs. Last season Tony Pulis used two very defensive players at all times, often using them as wingers which meant the team played with at least three defensive full backs on the pitch at once. Pieters gives a genuine different dimension.
Why sell him? Pieters’ time injured meant he lost his place to youngster Jetro Willems.
Will it work? Yes. He’s only 24, has good physical qualities and fills a massive need.
Grade: B+ Really good business for Stoke who can now focus their attentions elsewhere. Just a concern about him staying fit having been injured for so long.
