Stoke are looking at wrapping up a £6m deal for West Ham United striker Carlton Cole.
England frontman Cole is reportedly in talks with Potters management after the two clubs agreed a fee. The striker, who only scored 5 goals last season, has stayed behind as his current team mates have jetted out to Switzerland for a pre-season tour.
Cole has rejected a £6m move to Premier League newboys Queens Park Rangers whilst the Potters had earlier had a £3m bid rejected by the Hammers.
City have turned their attentions back to Cole after they were asked to wait on a decision by Birmingham frontman Cameron Jerome yesterday.