Stoke City Transfer Notebook: Spurs’ Stance on Ashley Phillips & Ongoing Centre-Half Search
With the summer transfer window looming, Stoke City’s recruitment team is working tirelessly behind the scenes to strengthen key areas of the squad. At the top of the priority list: bolstering the heart of defence. While the club has several targets under consideration, the situation surrounding Tottenham Hotspur defender Ashley Phillips remains a focal point — and one of growing complexity.
Ashley Phillips: The Waiting Game
Ashley Phillips, the 18-year-old centre-back currently on the books at Spurs, has been a long-standing target for Stoke City. The Potters had previously secured him on loan in the 2023/24 season, where he impressed with his physicality, calmness on the ball, and maturity beyond his years. Manager Steven Schumacher is understood to be a firm admirer, having been impressed by Phillips’ adaptability and leadership qualities during his spell at the bet365 Stadium.
Stoke would ideally like to bring Phillips back, either on a permanent deal or another loan. However, Tottenham’s stance remains cautious. Sources close to Spurs suggest the North London club is undecided about the teenager’s immediate future. There’s internal debate over whether Phillips should be integrated into Ange Postecoglou’s squad for pre-season, or sent out again for more consistent first-team minutes elsewhere.
Tottenham are also evaluating interest from other Championship clubs, making the battle for his signature increasingly competitive. Stoke, though, remain in regular contact with Spurs and Phillips’ representatives, keeping the door open for a late breakthrough.
Searching for Defensive Reinforcements
While the Phillips saga continues to unfold, Stoke are not putting all their eggs in one basket. The recruitment department is actively scouting other centre-back options, both domestically and abroad. With Michael Rose’s form dipping late last season and Ben Wilmot returning from injury, Schumacher is eager to add a reliable, athletic defender who can slot in immediately and handle the demands of the Championship.
One name linked with the Potters is Aberdeen’s Slobodan Rubežić, a towering presence who fits the physical profile Stoke are seeking. There’s also believed to be interest in a loan deal for a Premier League defender with youth international experience — although negotiations are at a very early stage.
Stoke are also exploring value in the European market, particularly in the Netherlands and Germany, where several free agents and low-fee targets are being assessed. With Financial Fair Play constraints always a factor, the club is trying to strike a balance between long-term investment and immediate impact.
Backroom Alignment and Strategic Planning
The pursuit of defensive reinforcements is part of a broader strategic plan being led by technical director Ricky Martin and manager Steven Schumacher. The duo have been aligned in their vision for the squad: younger, more dynamic, and capable of handling both the physical rigours and tactical demands of the Championship.
There’s also a growing emphasis on versatility — with a preference for defenders who can operate in both a back four and a back three. With the 2024/25 campaign expected to be highly competitive, especially with clubs like Leeds, West Brom, and Sheffield United aiming for promotion, Stoke want to ensure their back line is as resilient as possible.
The Road Ahead
With pre-season set to begin in just a few weeks, time is of the essence. While the Ashley Phillips situation could yet tilt in Stoke’s favour, the club is not standing still. They remain active in the market, ready to move swiftly if and when the right opportunity arises.
For now, Stoke City fans will be watching closely — hoping that their club’s defensive rebuild lays the foundation fora much-improved season ahead.
