?Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City have all expressed interest in signing Stoke City goalkeeper Jack Butland this summer.
According to the Mirror, following Butland’s successful recovery from a bad ankle injury in recent weeks, his return to fitness could see the 24-year-old England international involved in the much anticipated transfer merry-go-round, as is usually the case.
United and City are the most likely to move for a new number 1 this summer. David de Gea is continually linked with a move from the Red Devils to Real Madrid, with Butland joining favourite Jan Oblak on their list of preferred replacements.
Meanwhile, on the other side of town Pep Guardiola is hoping to offload Joe Hart, whilst his replacement, Claudio Bravo, has endured a torrid start to life in England.
Chelsea and Arsenal are both long term admirers of the 6’5” stopper, having monitored his progress as he broke through at Birmingham.
Indeed, it was believed at the time of his move to Stoke that he had turned down a move to Stamford Bridge in favour of guaranteed Premier League football, a decision that has since paid off handsomely.
The Blues would consider another bid for Butland should they lose incumbent Thibaut Courtois this summer. However, by all accounts the Belgian is happy in West London, and is anticipating a bumper new contract.
The Gunners meanwhile, could see second choice keeper David Ospina moving away in coming months – the Colombian, understandably, would like to become a first choice starter elsewhere.
Potters boss Mark Hughes as previously warned Butland not to leave the club to become a mere as a backup.
On reports of interest in him, Butland, who still has four years to run on his existing contract, said:
“But I also have to remember I have been out for a year now and I just need to get back to doing what I love doing and the rest will take care of itself.”
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