Stoke City star lined up for transfer exit - He only signed for the Potters in 2024 | OneFootball

Stoke City are facing transfer interest for Eric Bocat

Stoke City’s Eric Bocat is being lined up as an option by Standard Liege with the Belgian transfer window still open.

According to Sacha Tavolieri, the Pro League side have identified the full-back as their ideal choice to join the club before their market shuts on Monday evening.

Bocat joined the Potters from Belgian side Sint-Truiden in the 2024 summer transfer window, and has been a regular presence for the team in the Championship.

The left-back made 30 appearances in the league last season, including 23 starts, while featuring off the bench in three of their opening four fixtures in this campaign.

Standard Liege eye Stoke City deal

The Belgian Pro League’s transfer window is set to close this evening, with Standard Liege looking to bolster their options at left-back before the deadline.

It’s believed that their pursuit of Strasbourg defender Eduard Sobol has ended after discussions with the 30-year-old.

It’s understood that this has led the club to turn their attention to Bocat, who could be set for an exit from Stoke after just 12 months in England.

A return to Belgium is on the cards, although it remains to be seen whether the Potters would sanction a sale with the market shut for Championship sides.

The Frenchman has proven a useful part of the first team squad under Mark Robins, who will only be able to scour the free agent market in order to replace him, if he does depart.

Bocat has not started any league game this season, but has come off the bench in fixtures against Sheffield Wednesday, Southampton and West Brom, while playing a full 90 minutes in the EFL Cup against Walsall and Bradford City.

Next up for Stoke is a home clash against Birmingham City on 13 September in a 3pm kick-off, with the team sitting third in the second division table on nine points.

Eric Bocat sale would be risky for Stoke

While Bocat is firmly second choice under Robins at the moment, it’s unlikely the club will be able to rely on Aaron Cresswell to start every league game.

The 35-year-old has had his injury issues in the recent past, and is coming up the latter stages of his career, so having someone ready to come in for him will be valuable.

Standard Liege will have to make a very enticing offer, especially with the market closed for English clubs.

Unless Stoke can line up a possible free agent to replace him, this would be a very risky sale to agree to.