Stoke readying fresh bid for Chester

Stoke are attempting to launch themselves straight back into the Premier League, after last season's relegation, and they are keen to bring in new recruits to support their Championship campaign. 

One of their targets is James Chester, a 29-year-old centre-back who currently plays for fellow Championship side Aston Villa. Villa are in financial trouble at the moment, and need to raise £40m in order to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations. They are in debt, and Steve Bruce has admitted that player sales are inevitable.

There were reports earlier in the week that Villa had rejected a £5m bid from Stoke for Chester, but the 'Daily Mail' are now claiming that Gary Rowett's side are preparing a second offer of £7m. They also report that Villa want £10m for the defender, but it remains to be seen whether £7m will be enough to test their reserve.