Should Paul Lambert recall Bojan amid reports Spaniard wants Stoke City return?

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Could Stoke City’s answer to Premier League survival already be on the books at the Britannia Stadium?

The Stoke Sentinel reports that on-loan forward Bojan wants to return to Stoke City and help new manager Paul Lambert keep the club in the Premier League.

The Spaniard played in two of Stoke’s opening four games of the season – and was an unused substitute for the other two – before joining Alaves on loan on deadline day of the summer transfer window.

However, The Sentinel understands that Bojan is keen on a fresh start at the Britannia Stadium, and that Alaves are prepared to let him go as they attempt to cut their wage bill.

The 27-year-old remains popular with the Stoke fanbase after scoring 15 goals in 61 appearances before his latest departure – he also had a spell on loan at Mainz in 2017.

However, he has shown no form for Alaves with just one goal in 12 matches and Lambert would be taking a gamble in bringing him back rather than targeting somebody else.

With Stoke ideally in need of repairs all over the pitch, the Scotsman is likely to want to make three or four signings before the end of the window but is unlikely to have the funds to make that a reality.

Recalling players already on the club’s books could be a way to balance out the business – Marc Muniesa and Giannelli Imbula are also out on loan but it is not clear if there is an option to recall either.

According to The Sentinel, Bojan’s deal at Alaves can be terminated in January if all three parties agree.

The report adds that the forward is motivated to play for the Potters again and is desperate to perform for their supporters, and if his mindset is right, he definitly has the ability to contribute to Stoke’s cause.