Rumour Mongering: Stoke To Ask For Loaned Player in Exchange for Shaqiri

With Xherdan Shaqiri’s World Cup with Switzerland coming to an end last week, the rumours about his imminent departure are once again picking up. Liverpool are the frontrunners to sign the winger, and were said to be keen on finishing the deal once Shaqiri returned to England.

The Stoke City player has a release clause of £13million that was triggered upon Stoke’s relegation last season. While Liverpool are interested in him, other clubs are also said to be in the mix for his signature, including Manchester United. Stoke have to let him go, but the rumour is that they will try to wring some additional concessions out of the club who nab him.

The additional fee would be in the form of a loan signing for the season. Potters manager Gary Rowett needs reinforcements for his newly-relegated side, and with their star winger headed to greener pastures, they will surely be looking for a replacement.

Liverpool have some good, young options available if they want to take that route, including the likes of Ryan Kent.

Shaqiri was the standout player for Switzerland in Russia this summer. His release clause would be a very good price for a solid back up player for Liverpool. This transfer is said to be in addition to another, bigger midfield signing this summer. Nabil Fekir appears to be off the table, but there is still time for a replacement to be brought in.