Stoke have clear advantage over Leeds to sign Vydra, Whites are risking waiting game

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Will Stoke City re-ignite interest in Leeds target Matej Vydra?

As Leeds United’s proposed move for Matej Vydra drags on, they risk big spending Stoke City getting involved in the chase for the forward.

The Stoke Sentinel reported in early June that Stoke had made Vydra a top target, and they have a big advantage in the chase for him.

This is due to manager Gary Rowett, who managed Vydra at Derby County last season, with great success as the forward scored 21 Championship goals.

Stoke’s interest in Vydra has waned due to the signing of Benik Afobe from Wolves, a proven goalscorer.

But they are still looking for a creative player and have money to spend.

Stoke need a replacement for the departing Xherdan Shaqiri, and The Chronicle report they have had a £15 million bid turned down by Newcastle for Matt Ritchie.

Vydra is a different type of player, a bigger goal threat and more central, but his ability to play as a number 10 means he could play with Afobe.

The longer Leeds leave their pursuit of Vydra without resolution, the bigger the risk is that they get beaten to the punch by a more decisive team.

The Whites host Stoke City on the opening day of the season, and there is a risk that Vydra is lining up against them instead of with them.