Stoke City has expedited its transfer plans by securing a deal for striker Milan Smit from Go Ahead Eagles after a series of injuries to key players. Initially targeted for the upcoming summer transfer window, the 22-year-old was brought in sooner due to injuries sustained by Robert Bozenik, Sam Gallagher, Divin Mubama, Nathan Lowe, and Emre Tezgel.
The urgency arose when Mubama suffered a significant ankle injury on January 18, 2024. With the team’s attacking options severely limited, Stoke’s recruitment team acted swiftly, negotiating a deal that would allow Smit to join the squad in time to serve a one-match suspension and potentially debut against Southampton on Saturday at 12:30 PM.
Confirmation of the transfer came on Sunday morning, though Stoke has not disclosed whether they successfully registered Smit in time for the match. Smit was present in the stands for Stoke’s recent 1-1 draw with Birmingham, adding to the anticipation surrounding his arrival.
According to Smit’s agent, Nikkie Bruinenberg, negotiations progressed rapidly after the injury to Mubama. “Things really took off last Sunday when the Stoke striker was injured. By Monday morning, Go Ahead Eagles had received an offer,” Bruinenberg stated.
The negotiations were characterized by efficient communication between both clubs. A verbal agreement was established ahead of Go Ahead Eagles’ players traveling for a Europa League match in Nice. Bruinenberg noted that Smit’s participation in the Nice game was reconsidered to prioritize the transfer, which he described as a “record deal and a life-changing one for Milan.”
Ultimately, Smit joined Stoke on an initial loan that is expected to become permanent this summer for a fee of approximately £4.8 million. This decision reflects Stoke’s commitment to strengthening its squad in response to unforeseen challenges this season.
As the team navigates these injuries, the focus will now turn to integrating Smit into the lineup. Fans eagerly await his debut, which could provide a much-needed boost to Stoke’s attacking options as they continue their campaign in the league.
