Stoke City are said to be keen on a move for Ipswich Town striker George Hirst. The 27-year-old is back with the Blues after travelling with Scotland to the World Cup, although he didn't play a single minute for Steve Clarke's side despite notching 11 Championship goals last season.
What's the latest on George Hirst?
The Scottish Sun report that Hirst could be on the move this summer, however, with Stoke plotting an 'ambitious' move to sign him this summer. They add that 'Ipswich bosses will not stand in Hirst's way if the right opportunity to secure regular football - either via a loan or permanent exit - crops up.
Why is George Hirst a target for Stoke City?
He could find limited minutes at Portman Road following the arrival of Emersonn, with at least one more no.9 on Town's list of targets. Stoke are 'desperate' to add a 'physical centre-forward', with claims that they have seen three bid rejected by Norwegian side Sarpsborg for 6ft 5ins target man Daniel Karlsbakk.
What's next for George Hirst?
If Hirst does want to leave in search of regular minutes next season, Ipswich shouldn't stand in his way. He's been a loyal servant under Kieran McKenna, and at this stage in his career, it would be totally understandable if he wants to be a regular. That being said, I would much prefer him to stay. No, he won't be first choice next season, nor do I expect him to even be the main back-up, but the Blues will need three no.9 options and I think Hirst would be a strong part of that unit. He performed well in the Premier League last time, and despite a tough 2025/26 campaign, he still hit double digits. If he's happy to play a supporting role, I'd keep him. But I'd also understand why a move to Stoke - should their reported interest be genuine - would appeal.
Stoke City are currently 17th in the Championship, with 55 points from 46 games, and are 40 points behind leaders Coventry. They have scored 51 goals and conceded 56 this season, with a recent form of 0W-0D-5L. Their last result was a 2-0 loss to Bristol City on 2 May 2026. They face Cardiff away on 8 September 2026.
