John Carew in talks with Stoke!

Fresh reports this morning claim that Aston Villa centre-forward John Carew is in talks with Stoke over a loan deal. The Norwegian striker has fallen out with Villa manger Gerard Houllier, who has made it clear that Carew can leave, with West Brom favourites for to sign him. But Stoke`s surprise bid may see him in the red and white should talks go well.

The news will probably mean the end of and potential deal to sign Hoffenheim forward Demba Ba. After failing his medical Pulis was keen to snap him up on loan, but Hoffenheim stated that won`t be happening.

Since then Sky Sports reports that Pulis has moved quickly to bolster his strike options by making an attempt to bring the experienced Carew to the club. The 31 year-old joined Villa 3 and a half years ago in a swap deal and has enjoyed playing against Stoke by scoring 3 goals in 5 matches against us.

The high profile move will raise questions about team selection as Carew will expect to start. Kenwyne Jones place is set in stone at the moment, while Tuncay, Fuller and Jon Walters have rotated the second striker`s slot all season with mixed success. Carew will have his work cut out to force his way in but he could work out to be a very promising signing for Stoke, and may lead to a permanent deal in the summer.