Sky Sports sources understand that Stoke are in talks with Chelsea over a proposed loan move for Romelu Lukaku.
Chelsea newcomer targeted by Premier League rivals
Sky Sports sources understand that Stoke are in talks with Chelsea over a proposed loan move for Romelu Lukaku.
Tony Pulis has made no secret of his desire to strengthen the Potters squad ahead of Wednesday's 11pm transfer deadline.
Stoke are looking to maintain the progress they have made over the past few years in the Premier League, while they also have to cope with the demands of a Europa League campaign this season.
A number of names have been linked with a move to the Britannia Stadium and it is understood that Lukaku has been identified as a possible transfer target.
The two clubs are now believed to be in discussions over a loan deal, with Chelsea apparently open to the idea of letting him go on a short-term basis.
Lukaku only arrived at Stamford Bridge from Anderlecht this month and made his Premier League debut as a late substitute against Norwich at the weekend.
Blues boss Andre Villas-Boas may feel that he has enough attacking options at his disposal for the foreseeable future with the likes of Didier Drogba, Fernando Torres and Daniel Sturridge, while Lukaku would benefit from gaining experience of English football by playing more regularly at Stoke.
Jerome
The powerful Belgian striker, 18, would be an exciting addition to the Potters squad but he is not the only player under consideration by Pulis.
It is understood that Stoke are also in pole position to sign Cameron Jerome from Birmingham ahead of Fulham.
Jerome has been linked with a move away from St Andrew's since Blues suffered relegation at the end of last season and Stoke and Fulham were both believed to be monitoring his situation.
But it is the Potters who are thought to be closest to securing a deal as Pulis looks to add some extra firepower.
