"34 is not an old age" - Pundit backs Stoke City to land veteran Premier League striker this summer | OneFootball

Despite not knowing what division they'll be plying their trade in for 2024-25, Stoke City are said to be keen on adding veteran forward Jay Rodriguez to their ranks this summer.

According to TEAMtalk, the Potters are eyeing a move for the Burnley striker this summer.

The 34-year-old is set to be available as a free agent following the impending conclusion of his Clarets contract, with the likelihood of it being renewed being slim.

This could open the door for a move to Stoke, with the team currently fighting for its survival in the Championship.

Rodriguez has struggled for game time in the Premier League this year, having helped Vincent Kompany’s side gain promotion to the top flight in the previous campaign.

Carlton Palmer gives verdict on Stoke’s pursuit of Rodriguez

Former England international Carlton Palmer believes that it could be a smart move from Stoke to bring Rodriguez to the club given their obvious need for attacking reinforcements.

He has highlighted the potential exits of Wesley and Tyrese Campbell as a major reason for the need to improve that area of the squad.

“Stoke City are set to make a summer move for Burnley striker Jay Rodriguez,” Palmer told Football League World.

“Stoke have struggled in front of goal, and they’re looking to solve that problem.

“Jay Rodriguez was instrumental in Burnley getting promoted last season, scoring 10 goals, but then he’s struggled for first team action this season.

“Stoke are looking over their shoulders, and probably thinking they’re going to lose Tyrese Campbell and Wesley when their contracts expire in the summer, and so they need to bring in an experienced player.

“Jay Rodriguez has scored a lot of goals in the Championship, he’s a good Championship player.

“I think 133 [games played] in the Championship with 41 goals represents a good tally, these were scored at Burnley and West Brom in the second tier.

“So, should Stoke stay in the division - and that’s looking more and more likely - on a free transfer this might be a good bit of business.

“Everybody always talks about age, but if you’re fit then 34 is not an old age to be doing what you’re doing. “If you keep yourself fit then it shouldn’t be a problem. “So, again, if you’re taking him on a free transfer then you hedge your bets and hope that it comes off for you.

“It could be a good bit of business for Stoke City.”

Jay Rodriguez's Burnley FC stats

Rodriguez has featured just 20 times in the Premier League so far this season, which has included making just seven starts (all stats from Fbref).

He has contributed two goals and one assist, with the Lancashire outfit currently occupying a relegation spot, sitting 19th in the table.

Rodriguez re-joined the club in the summer of 2019, making his return to Turf Moor after playing for the club from 2007 to 2012, having come through their academy system.

But his second stint at Burnley looks like it will be coming to an end in the coming weeks, unless a contract renewal is agreed.

While it’s been a difficult year back in the Premier League for Rodriguez, he can still potentially contribute at a second division level.

He scored 10 goals in 28 appearances for Burnley last year as they won the Championship title.

Having an experienced forward that can still contribute with goals is something Stoke need if they are to improve next year.

As a free agent signing, the Potters could do a lot worse than bring someone like Rodriguez into the first team squad, even if only on a short-term basis.