Stoke City handed boost as transfer deadline slams shut - West Ham snub is huge | OneFootball

The Potters’ retention of Viktor Johansson should be considered a coup in itself

Stoke City have emerged from the summer transfer window with a quiet but crucial victory: keeping hold of their goalkeeper, Viktor Johansson.

While much of the attention has focused on the Potters’ 11 new signings, it is retaining their man between the sticks that could prove the most significant outcome of the window.

Johansson, who has been the subject of persistent Premier League interest - most notably from West Ham United - remained resolutely with Stoke after the club opted against any approach.

The decision ensures Mark Robins keeps one of the most important figures in his squad as the Championship campaign enters its early stages.

The Potters go into the international break in a strong third place, with just a 1-0 loss against West Bromwich Albion before the pause marring an otherwise perfect record.

It’s a foundation that already owes so much to Johansson’s reliability at the back.

Viktor Johansson was vital for Stoke City last season - and will continue to be

Johansson’s influence at Stoke extends far beyond the basics of shot stopping. The Swedish goalkeeper played every minute of the Championship season last term, keeping 14 clean sheets and conceding the second-fewest goals of any keeper in the division.

His consistency earned him the club’s Player of the Year award and the captain’s armband cemented his status as a leader in the dressing room.

On the pitch, Johansson is commanding and composed. His ability to read the game allows him to sweep off his line effectively, while his positional awareness ensures he is rarely caught out of place.

Equally important is his contribution to the team’s overall play. Comfortable in possession, he has already demonstrated an ability to influence attacking phases - most notably assisting Sorba Thomas’ goal against Southampton this season.

Beyond the statistics, Johansson’s presence provides a sense of stability. Fans and teammates alike recognise his calming influence, both as a figure of authority on the pitch and as a unifying presence in the squad.

For Stoke, whose ambitions this season must include consolidating their place near the top of the table - if not pushing for promotion - having such a dependable figure in goal is invaluable.

Impressive transfer window will be inspiring for Potters supporters

While keeping their goalkeeper represents Stoke’s biggest victory, it was far from the only significant retention.

Million Manhoef, one of the club’s brightest young talents, will also remain at the bet365 Stadium for the foreseeable future, despite interest from Sheffield United.

Recruitment has been equally impressive. The Potters have struck a balance between youth and experience, securing exciting prospects such as Tomas Rigo, Lamine Cisse, Divin Mubama and Jamie Donley, while also adding seasoned professionals to guide the squad.

Aaron Cresswell’s free transfer from West Ham brings invaluable top-flight pedigree, while Sorba Thomas and Maksym Talovierov add proven Championship nous.

With virtually every department strengthened, Robins and his recruitment team appear to have covered all bases.

The challenge now is ensuring that this carefully constructed squad delivers on the pitch - but the early signs, and the presence of Johansson as a cornerstone, suggest Stoke are well placed for a season of genuine progress.