The future of Stoke City striker Niall Ennis remains uncertain as the end of the season approaches, with Blackpool keen to keep him and Wigan Athletic also expressing interest.
Ennis, currently on loan at Blackpool, has made a positive impact at Bloomfield Road after moving in January. He has netted six goals in 14 appearances, catching the eye of several clubs as his time with the Tangerines draws to a close.
The 25-year-old’s contract with Stoke runs until June 2026, meaning the Potters have a decision to make soon to avoid the risk of losing him for free next year.
Battle for Ennis Heats Up
Blackpool boss Steve Bruce has made it clear he would like to keep Ennis at the club beyond the current campaign but admitted any move depends on Stoke’s willingness to negotiate.
“The move had done him the world of good and put him back in the spotlight, and he’s scored a few goals for us. I’d like to keep him if I could, but we’ll see what happens.
“We’ve got to be mindful of the fact that he belongs to Stoke, so if there’s a deal to be done, let’s see what we can do.
“I think he’s just enjoying it here, but in the next week or so I’ll have a sit down with him to see what his thoughts are, but Stoke are the ones we’ve got to get back first.”
Adding to the competition, Wigan Athletic, now managed by Ryan Lowe, have also been linked with a move for Ennis. Lowe worked with the forward during their time at Plymouth Argyle, where Ennis enjoyed a productive spell.
Stoke City must now weigh up whether to cash in on Ennis this summer or risk him running down his deal, which would leave them without a fee in 2026.
Niall Ennis
Ennis began his career with boyhood club Wolves, signing a pro deal at 17. Early promise was hampered by multiple injuries, but he made his senior debut in 2019. Loan spells at Shrewsbury, Doncaster, and Burton followed before a permanent move to Plymouth Argyle in 2021.
There, Ennis flourished, helping them win the League One title in 2022–23. A move to Blackburn followed, but he joined Stoke in early 2024. Now on loan at Blackpool, Ennis was named League One Player of the Month in February 2025 after a flying start.
Writer’s view
Ennis has revitalised his career with a strong spell at Blackpool, and it’s no surprise that clubs are circling. Stoke City hold the cards but may find themselves under pressure to sell if the right offer comes in. With Blackpool eager and Wigan lurking, it could turn into an interesting tug-of-war over the striker’s services in the coming weeks.
