It seems unlikely that Jack Butland will be Stoke City’s number one next season.
The 20-year-old is regarded as one of the best young goalkeepers in the country, and has been tipped to challenge Manchester City’s Joe Hart for the England spot in the future. Such a reputation meant he was sure to be hot property when Birmingham City agreed to sell him in the New Year, and it was Stoke who won the race for his signature.
But with Asmir Begovic continuing to impress, Tony Pulis has allowed Butland to see out the season with the Blues. And it looks as though the youngster will be loaned out again next term, unless a Premier League rival comes up with some big money for his rival.
“No-one’s rung me up to ask about Asmir and if they did the price would be…I can’t even think,” said Pulis. “They’d have to spend a hell of a lot of money to take him away. I couldn’t even give you a price because I haven’t even thought about it. The fact we’ve signed Jack doesn’t mean we’re going to sell Asmir. I still think there’s more to come from Asmir.”
A number of Premier League clubs have been linked with Begovic in the past, including Manchester United. But with David De Gea proving his undoubted quality this season, it is unlikely Sir Alex Ferguson will make a move for the Bosnian. Arsenal have also been credited with an interest in the 25-year-old, and with Wojciech Szczesny failing to build on his good performances of last season, Arsene Wenger could well make a summer bid.
