Why James McClean will be a good budget option for Stoke City

As per reports, Stoke City are confident about sealing a move for West Brom winger James McClean by the end of the week.

Both teams were relegated from the Premier League last season and new Potters manager Gary Rowett wants to sign McClean, following the capture of Nigeria midfielder Karo Etebo and Wolves striker Benik Afobe.

West Brom had previously rejected a £4m bid from Stoke for McClean this summer because they want £6m for the player, who has just a year left on his current contract with the Hawthorns outfit.

The Northern Irishman moved to West Brom from Wigan in 2015 and has made 112 appearances for the Baggies. He made 30 league appearances for West Brom last term as they suffered relegation to the Championship.

So far, Stoke City have signed some good players in the summer but one area where the Potters desperately need reinforcing is their attack, despite the club acquiring the services of Afobe. That being said; a move for McClean could do well for Stoke.

An incredibly hard-working wide man, McClean is a player who always gives his 100% on the pitch. He can be frustrating at times due to his lack of end product but McClean always remains committed to the team’s cause.

McLean is most comfortable when operating from the left flank and can also play through the middle as a false nine. He is pacey, athletic, agile and a diligent worker on the field. The 29-year-old can run throughout a game without getting tired even for a minute.

A feisty character on the field and off it, McClean has not scored as many goals as he perhaps should have. Just 11 goals in 158 Premier League matches is not a good record but his versatility, power and stamina are tough to ignore. With his direct approach and raw pace, Rowett would be getting a player, who can help his team in counter-attacks.

It will be really intriguing to see how McClean performs in the Championship as his attributes look tailor-made for the highly physical league. His direct style of play combined with his 100% commitment would surely prove to be useful for Stoke.

At just £6m, McClean would represent a shrewd signing for Stoke.