The Stoke City defender could be on the way out as his contract expires this summer.
Tottenham’s Eric Dier in action with Stoke City’s Marko Arnautovic and Phil Bardsley
Stoke City manager, Mark Hughes, has admitted recently that he will be looking to bolster his defence this summer.
According to reports from the Daily Mail, Phil Bardsley could be on his way out as his contract is set to expire this summer.
The Stoke City boss has already admitted that Giannelli Imbula would be allowed to leave the club, and it seems full back Bardsley could follow the exit door as well.
The former Manchester United defender joined Stoke City in 2014, and has made 50 Premier League appearances for the Potters. This season, he has made 16 appearances and scored a lone goal in the League Cup tie against Stevenage.
The report adds that a host of Premier League and Championship clubs have registered their interest in the 31-year-old defender.
Tottenham’s Ben Davies in action with Stoke City’s Phil Bardsley
The Mail suggests that a move to Sunderland could be an option for the defender. Bardsley has enjoyed a fruitful spell with the Black Cats before, having spent seven seasons with them, including a year in the Championship.
David Moyes is expected to undergo a massive rebuilding work in the simmer, and could be interested in bringing the former defender back.
However, they might face a tough competition from their derby rivals, Newcastle United who are reportedly interested in signing the Stoke City defender.
Rafael Benitez will be given a massive transfer war-chest in the summer, and the Spaniard is looking to bolster every area of the pitch.
Bardsley may not be a first choice target for Benitez, but he could be a solid defensive back-up option for the Magpies. Brighton, Hull City, and Reading are also interested in the defender.
Stoke City have the option of extending the deal by a further 12 months, but Hughes may decide against that.
West Bromwich Albion’s James Morrison in action with Stoke City’s Phil Bardsley
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