Stoke City notebook: Million Manhoef contract update amid transfer whispers

Stoke City has reportedly triggered an option to extend Million Manhoef's contract, securing the 24-year-old winger until at least 2028. The news follows reports that the club recently rejected a £5 million permanent transfer bid from MLS side Colorado Rapids, who subsequently signed Morgan Whittaker from Middlesbrough for around £8 million instead.

In other club developments, Stoke has signed 25-year-old goalkeeper James Hillson on a short-term deal to serve as a training keeper alongside Viktor Johansson, Josh Griffiths, and Frank Fielding. Additionally, club doctor Dr Joe Amissah-Arthur is departing the Potters after three years working across the first team and academy.