Breaking: Stoke City land leading transfer target on four-year deal
Latest Stoke City transfer news from Stoke-on-Trent Live as Alex Neil is reunited with the midfielder who impressed on loan
stoke City have landed one of their top transfer targets after Ben Pearson signed from Bournemouth on a four-year deal.
Pearson spent the final four months of the 2022/23 season in the Potteries, becoming a firm fans’ favourite over the course of 14 fixtures in red and white.
The midfielder stated that his previous stay in the Potteries, together with a firm belief in the methods of a manager he knows well, were integral factors behind his return.
“From the end of last season, I have held a desire to return here, and I am glad that the opportunity has now materialised for me,” Pearson explained.
“I think the manager has a trust in me and what I can deliver on the pitch for him in terms of my consistency, work rate and execution of the game plan.
“That trust is reciprocated, and I firmly believe he has a playing style and methods that will be successful in the Championship.
“It has been a nice feeling hearing how much they wanted me to return, and I want to repay them for that because, both personally and collectively, I know we can improve significantly on last season.”
Stoke City technical director Ricky Martin said he was thrilled to have Pearson back.
“Bringing Ben back to the club on a permanent basis was a priority in our recruitment this summer,” he said.
“He knows what it takes to win in the Championship having been successful with Preston and Bournemouth. He also thrives off working with Alex and is well suited to the high tempo football we want to play.
“We’re aiming to build a culture whereby the supporters feel a connection with the players and vice versa.
“Ben has already built that relationship on loan last season. The fans responded positively to his quality, work ethic and clear desire to win, something he wears on his sleeve every time he steps onto the pitch.”
