Transfer update – Pulis to be busy

Tony Pulis is closing in on the signature of Brek Shea after it is thought that the player has passed his medical with only a work permit now standing in the way. A hearing is set to take place at Wembley Stadium this afternoon with representatives present for both the club and player.

Jack Butland, also represented by Stoke based solicitors Beswicks, has been the subject of an enquiry from the Potters and a firm offer may well go in before tonight`s 11pm deadline. Birmingham would want most of the money up front for the England international with an offer of £3.5m thought to be enough to sign the 19-year-old.

Peter Crouch is one player who could leave the club, but Queens Park Rangers` £5m bid has been rejected by Stoke although a slightly higher offer may see the 32-year-old leave after 18 months in the Potteries.

Defender Matthew Upson is attracting interest from Championship side Brighton and Hove Albion. The experienced defender has only played once in the Premier League this season -the 3-3 draw against Southampton in December. Brighton coach Charlie Oatway says that Upson is a player that is on the club`s radar.