Stoke City have slapped a price tag of £23 million on their goalkeeper Jack Butland amidst the player’s desire to leave the club this summer.
Butland has been on Stoke City’s books since January 2013, and has been one of the most consistent players for the Potters. However, he is keen to leave the club after they failed to challenge for promotion last season.
The Sun have claimed that Stoke have slapped a price tag of £23 million on the custodian, and are unwilling to budge on their decision. Interestingly, Butland’s former club Birmingham City will have a 20 percent sell-on clause.
The English international was in a good form last season as he managed 18 clean sheets in 45 appearances in the Championship, and made 2.8 saves per game on an average.
Without any doubt, Butland is a proven shot-stopper and considering his availability, here are three clubs who should target him.
Arsenal
While Petr Cech retired after the Europa League final, Colombian international David Ospina is reportedly on the verge of a permanent move to Napoli. Unai Emery’s side, therefore, need a proven goalkeeper at any cost.
Bernd Leno, who was Emery’s first-choice in the posts last season, fared well between the sticks. However, Emery needs to sign a goalkeeper who can challenge Leno for a first-team place.
Someone like Butland can be a handy asset for the north London club as he is in the peak of his prowess and is a top-flight quality goalkeeper.
Bournemouth
Bournemouth goalkeeper Asmir Begovic didn’t have the best of outings last season, and should he move on in the summer, Butland might be the perfect replacement for the Bosnian.
Stoke City’s failure to earn promotion last season means that Butland will get a ticket to play in the Premier League once again if his move to Bournemouth actually happens.
The Cherries will want to push on next season, and need to shore up their defence, a key part of which is the goalkeeping department.
Watford
The Watford Observer have claimed that Watford are in talks with their 38-year-old goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes on his future at the Vicarage Road.
The veteran’s contract expires at the end of this month and apart from the Brazilian, 36-year-old Ben Foster is all the Hornets have as their goalkeeping option.
Considering both of Watford’s goalkeepers are in the wrong end of their thirties, Butland seems like a solid option for Javi Gracia.
Butland is only 26, and can be a long-term solution for the Hornets.
