Stoke City are reportedly nearing a transfer for American midfielder Jack McGlynn from MLS side Houston Dynamo. The 23-year-old is expected to move to the English Championship club before the deadline.
McGlynn, a veteran of the U.S. Youth national-team system, moved from Philadelphia Union to Houston Dynamo last year. He has been instrumental in helping the Dynamo become one of the stronger teams in the Western Conference. His departure would remove a key figure from their midfield. It has been stated that moves involving McGlynn and Luca Bombino were likely to happen before the deadline but that neither deal was complete. It has also been noted that "McGlynn has helped the Dynamo become one of the top teams in the Western Conference."
Why Stoke City want Jack McGlynn
Stoke City's need for midfield reinforcement is clear from their current league position. As of September 3, 2026, the Potters sit 22nd in the Championship with just three points from four games, having lost three of their opening matches. They have scored only four goals while conceding nine, leaving them with a -5 goal difference and already seven points behind leaders Swansea City. The club's recent history adds context to this urgency. Stoke finished 17th last season and have recorded mid- to lower-half finishes since their relegation from the Premier League in 2018, cycling through a succession of managers. The hope is that McGlynn, alongside Bombino, can help stabilize the team and push it back up the table. Both players could see substantial minutes soon after their arrivals are formalized.
How McGlynn fits the current squad
Integrating a new midfielder will be a priority for the coaching staff, especially with several players currently sidelined. The club's injuries list includes Aaron Cresswell, Ato Ampah, Ben Gibson, Junior Tchamadeu, Lamine Cissé, and Svante Ingelsson. McGlynn's potential arrival offers a fresh option in the engine room. His profile fits a growing trend of Championship clubs scouting MLS talent, a pathway that has seen recent success for other players. The Championship is increasingly viewed as a platform for players seeking further opportunities in Europe, and a move to Stoke would give McGlynn a new setting to pursue his ambition of breaking into the full U.S. National team. He is no longer a youth international but should remain in the mix for senior selection.
What happens next for Stoke City
The immediate focus shifts to finalizing the deal before the transfer window closes. If completed, McGlynn would join a squad preparing for a tough Championship fixture. Stoke's next match is at home against Charlton Athletic on September 5. Charlton currently sit 3rd in the table, presenting a significant challenge for a Stoke side looking to halt its poor form. Fans can track the team's upcoming schedule on our fixtures page. The club's broader campaign can be followed via the latest standings. Securing McGlynn's signature would be a step towards addressing the issues highlighted by a difficult start to the 2026/27 season.
