Stoke in hunt for left back’s Popov and Ziegler

Stoke City are looking to add a left back to their ranks, in the form of either Dynamo Kiev`s Goran Popov or Juventus` Reto Ziegler.

Manager Tony Pulis` preferred option seems to be Macedonian Popov, but the possible transfer, which would see the defender move to Stoke on an initial season long loan deal hit a snag when a work permit was not granted, as his International team are not ranked high enough in the FIFA World Rankings.

Recent developments though in which Popov has confirmed he has a Bulgarian passport could mean that the deal could be reignited on appeal and the 27-year-old could secure his dream Premier League move.

If the deal is not completed, Welsh supreme Pulis will turn his attentions to Switzerland international Reto Ziegler who is currently plying his trade in Italy for Serie A champions Juventus.

The former Tottenham and Wigan defender spent last season on loan at Turkish side Fenerbahce and is rumoured to be available for around £2.5/3 million.