“Could be more attractive destinations” – Stoke City join race for in-demand Leeds United man: The verdict | OneFootball

This article is part of Football League World’s ‘The Verdict‘ series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…

Stoke City have reportedly entered the race to sign Leeds United forward Joe Gelhardt on loan.

According to Football Insider, the Potters are lining up a move for Gelhardt to replace Liam Delap, who had his loan deal terminated by Manchester City and subsequently joined Preston North End last week.

The Whites are willing to let Gelhardt leave temporarily after securing the signing of Georginio Rutter and there is no shortage of suitors for his signature.

As we revealed, more than half the Championship are thought to be keen on Gelhardt. The likes of Wigan Athletic, Swansea City, Sunderland, Hull City and Blackburn Rovers have all been credited with interest, with Stoke the latest name to be added to the list of admirers.

We asked some of our FLW writers for their thoughts on a potential move to the bet365 Stadium.

James Reeves

Gelhardt would be an excellent signing for Stoke.

There is no doubt of the 20-year-old’s potential and he has shown he is more than capable of playing in the Premier League. With so many clubs chasing him, it would be a coup for whoever manages to land his signature.

But the Whites should perhaps be cautious about allowing him to move to the Potteries, with Delap’s struggles acting as the biggest warning sign about the potential challenges he may face.

Alex Neil’s side have been unable to find consistency this season and with their prospects of a play-off push looking ever more unlikely, there could be more attractive destinations for Gelhardt.

But Gelhardt would be a useful asset to the Potters should they manage to convince him to join and with some of their attackers under performing, their interest is understandable.

Quiz: What club do these 15 ex-Stoke City academy players play for now?

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Declan Harte

With the departure of Delap earlier in the window it makes sense for Stoke to go into the market for another forward.

This is also a side lacking a consistent goal scorer so it could be a good opportunity for Gelhardt to show what he is capable of.

There is a lot of competition to sign the Leeds United youngster, but Stoke could prove to be a good fit.

Prioritising minutes on the pitch will be key for his next destination, which Alex Neil should be able to provide him.

Simmey Hannifin-Donaldson

I think this is a logical move for Stoke City to make and would be a good signing for the Potters.

Having lost Liam Delap following his return to Man City and subsequent loan to Preston, the Potters could certainly do with a striking reinforcement.

You do worry for their chances with this one though.

The competition for Gelhardt’s temporary signature is very strong and it could be that there are other moves more appealing to Leeds or the player.