Stoke City have reportedly made a £2.5m bid for Bristol City striker Fally Mayulu as manager Mark Robins looks to reinforce the squad and steer clear of relegation danger.
Stoke’s Striker Search: A Bold Move for Mayulu
Mark Robins, Stoke City’s newly-appointed boss, is wasting no time reshaping his squad in the January transfer window. Sitting just two points above the relegation zone in 18th place, the Potters are in desperate need of firepower, and their sights are set on Bristol City’s Fally Mayulu.
The 22-year-old striker joined Bristol City from Rapid Wien in the summer, arriving with a reputation as a physically imposing and promising forward. Mayulu made an instant impact by scoring in his first two games for the Robins, but his form has since waned. With limited opportunities under Liam Manning and his recent omission from the matchday squad, Stoke see an opportunity to snap up the Frenchman for £2.5m.
Mayulu’s struggles for consistent starts at Ashton Gate have raised questions about his long-term future. Despite his potential, he has been unable to replicate his Austrian league form, where he impressed with Blau Weiss Linz and Rapid Wien before moving to the Championship.
Why Stoke Need a Striker
Stoke City’s striker situation has been a revolving door in recent weeks. The recall of Tom Cannon by parent club Leicester City has left a gap in their attacking line-up. While Nathan Lowe has returned from a successful loan spell at Walsall and scored in his first game back, the Potters are keen to add depth and quality to their forward line.
Niall Ennis and Emre Tezgel offer promise but lack the consistent goal threat Stoke need to climb the table. Meanwhile, Sam Gallagher remains sidelined, leaving Stoke with few reliable options. Mayulu could bring the physical presence and potential to rejuvenate their attack, but his lack of form at Bristol City raises questions about whether he can deliver immediately.
Site Opinion: A Calculated Gamble for Stoke, a Dilemma for Bristol
For Stoke City, bidding £2.5m for Mayulu is a calculated gamble. His performances in Austria showcased his ability to lead the line, and a change of scenery might reignite the form that drew Bristol City to him in the first place. With Mark Robins eager to secure safety and rebuild for the future, Mayulu could be a key piece if he adapts quickly to Stoke’s system.
For Bristol City, the decision is less straightforward. Selling Mayulu so soon after signing him risks sending a message of instability and poor planning. While his form has dipped, Mayulu is still a young, talented striker with time to develop. However, if his opportunities under Liam Manning remain limited, cashing in now could free up resources for reinforcements.
Ultimately, whether this move materialises will depend on Stoke’s urgency to strengthen and Bristol’s willingness to part ways with a player they once saw as a future star. With the January transfer window ticking down, time will tell if Mayulu’s next chapter begins at the bet365 Stadium.
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