Stoke City have placed a £12 million asking price on the head of midfielder Wouter Burger amid growing interest from the Premier League, according to TEAMtalk.
The 23-year-old arrived at the bet365 Stadium only a year ago in a £4.3 million transfer from Swiss club FC Basel. He penned a four-year deal and was immediately thrust into the limelight, making his debut as a second half substitute in a 1-0 defeat against Millwall in August.
As the Potters continued to endure a miserable campaign, Burger soon became one of the only plus points within the squad. Following an injury to Josh Laurent in December, the former Dutch under-21 international was given the captain’s armband by new boss Steven Schumacher.
Despite his performances, Stoke plunged down the Championship table. They dropped into the relegation places at the end of February, although their fairly strong end to the season saw them finish six points above the drop zone in 17th.
His form saw him earn the plaudits of the supporters, where he finished second in the fans’ vote for Player of the Season behind fellow midfielder Bae Junho. Unfortunately for Schumacher’s side, this has seen him catch the eyes of a number of Premier League teams.
It is claimed that Tottenham Hotspur lead the chase, with recently relegated Sheffield United also in pursuit. There are also two unnamed clubs thought to be keen, which could kickstart a bidding war this summer.
Stoke are said to have put a £12 million price tag on Burger’s head, which would represent a significant profit just one year after he gave up Switzerland for Staffordshire. This fee, according to the report, is unlikely to put off any potential suitors.
The former Feyenoord man finished the campaign with three goals and four assists in 39 Championship appearances.
Writer’s View
Stoke will be desperate to keep hold of a player of Burger’s capabilities, especially after only acquiring his services a year ago. Although he certainly has his price, the Potters do hold the upper hand, with the midfielder still having three years remaining on his contract.
A club the size of Spurs, who will be able to offer European football, will be difficult to keep at bay should they make their interest concrete. However, a move to Sheffield United seems unlikely following their relegation. There is no need to sell to a club who will be in the same division next season, especially one that could be a direct rival.