Stoke City hopes to secure a permanent deal for Charlton Athletic’s Alfie Doughty, according to Richard Cawley of the South London Press.
The 21-year-old has been the subject of increased interest since The Addicks were relegated from the Championship last season.
Charlie Atheltic’s Alfie Doughty is preparing to sign for Stoke City
Ready to beat a host of clubs with Alfie Doughty Signature
Since the summer, Doughty has become a highly sought-after left-side player and a departure from The Valley has been on the cards for a while. Luton Town and Celtic bid on the talented 21-year-old earlier in the season, according to the Herald Scotland, with the former eventually opting for Rhys Norrington-Davies, a player who has since joined The Potters.
Elsewhere in the championship, both AFC Bournemouth and Queens Park Rangers expressed interest in Doughty, but it appears the Potters are in pole position to secure a deal with the highly-skilled southpaw.
Doughty still faces a long spell away from the field and where will he fit in in Stoke
Alfie Doughty won’t be ready for action if he signs in the next few days as he is still recovering from a hamstring injury that has kept him out since late October.
The 21-year-old is certainly considered a long-term option, with Rhys Norrington-Davies currently occupying Doughty’s left-back position. However, the Welshman is expected to return to Sheffield United at the end of the season to fight for a place in Chris Wilder’s starting lineup.
Despite progressing through the ranks at Charlton as a left back, Lee Bowyer has also frequently played the 21-year-old on the left side of midfield. His versatility will suit Stoke boss Michael O’Neill, who has often chosen to use wingers this season – a system that will likely benefit Doughty, who is often an offensive-minded winger.
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