Stoke City are targeting Fortuna Sittard’s Rodrigo Guth in a £1.66m move. The Brazilian defender has drawn interest from Ferencvaros and Panathinaikos.
Currently playing for Eredivisie side Fortuna Sittard, Guth has impressed with his solid performances in the Dutch top tier. Since joining from Atalanta in 2022, the 24-year-old has made 12 appearances this season, scoring once and contributing to six clean sheets.
German media outlet Fussball Europa reports that Stoke City are considering a bid of €2 million (£1.66 million) for Guth. However, the Potters are not alone in their pursuit, with Hungarian champions Ferencvaros and Greek Super League side Panathinaikos also showing strong interest in the defender.
Under the guidance of head coach Narcis Pelach, Stoke City currently sit 14th in the Championship, having conceded 20 goals and recorded five clean sheets across 17 matches. Pelach has primarily relied on the defensive pairing of Ashley Phillips and Ben Gibson, but with Phillips expected to return to Tottenham Hotspur next season, Guth could fill a key vacancy in the backline.
Strengthening Stoke City’s Defence
Rodrigo Guth’s contract with Fortuna Sittard runs until 2027, but his consistent displays have turned the heads of scouts across Europe. The defender’s composed style and versatility make him a valuable asset, capable of slotting into various tactical setups.
In a previous interview, Guth revealed that while he is focused on his current team, he remains open to exploring opportunities outside the Netherlands. His potential move to Stoke could mark an important step in his career, providing the Championship side with a robust option to fortify their defence.
Guth’s arrival would likely bring stability and experience to Stoke’s backline. Given the club’s current position, such a signing could play a vital role in bolstering their defensive record and pushing for a higher spot on the table.
European Competition in the Race for Guth
Stoke City’s pursuit of Guth is not without challenges. Both Ferencvaros and Panathinaikos present strong competition for the Brazilian defender, each offering the appeal of European competition. These factors could influence Guth’s decision, making Stoke’s pitch crucial in securing his signature.
To convince Guth, Stoke must emphasise their long-term vision, the potential for regular first-team football, and their ambition to climb the Championship rankings. While Stoke might not offer European play immediately, the promise of being a pivotal part of their squad could outweigh other considerations.
Writer’s View
Stoke City’s reported interest in Rodrigo Guth underscores their determination to strengthen defensively. As competition heats up, the Potters must act decisively to land the talented Brazilian. If successful, the acquisition could significantly enhance their squad’s resilience and help them make strides towards achieving their goals.
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