Are Stoke after Harewood?

Reports in the press indicate that Stoke are keeping tabs on Villa striker, Marlon Harewood.

It’s no secret that Stoke enquired about taking Harewood on loan last season, but nothing came of it as the former West Ham player became known for his ‘super-sub’ skills with five goals in 22 appearances from the bench.

His agent has now let it be known that several clubs (including the Potters) are keeping an eye on him, even though ‘at the moment he’s going nowhere’.

It wouldn’t surprise me if Tony Pulis and his scouting staff have enquired about him, but I’m also suspicious about the motives behind any quote from an agent when he states how many clubs are after his player even though he has no intention of moving. Unless, we can assume, the ‘right’ offer comes in.

I’d be surprised if Harewood really is happy to settle with a place on the subs’ bench at Villa Park, if there is a chance of a starting position in another Premier League club. If Martin O’Neill was to bring in another striker that would push him even further down the pecking order. Certainly a deal around the £4m mark that he cost Villa 12 months ago shouldn’t be a stumbling block if Pulis reckons he’s the right one.

Would Harewood be a good signing for Stoke? Have you say below.