Stoke City are gearing up for a vital summer transfer window after a disappointing Championship season, which saw them finish 17th in the table. The Potters had a promising start to the season, sitting second in the table in late November, but a poor second half of the campaign led to a slide down the table. Manager Mark Robins has been under pressure, with speculation over his future increasing last month, but the club has decided to keep faith with the 56-year-old. As Stoke begin their summer rebuild, midfield duo Lewis Baker and Steven N'Zonzi have been released at the end of their contracts, while star goalkeeper Viktor Johansson has signed a new four-year contract. The club has made one signing so far, with forward Milan Smit completing a permanent move from Go Ahead Eagles for a reported fee of €5.5 million. Sporting director Jon Walters has hinted that a busy summer could be ahead, with the club close to signing former Sheffield United loanee Djibril Soumare from Braga for a fee of £3.7 million. Walters admitted that the World Cup has caused delays to their transfer business, but he is hopeful of getting a number of deals over the line before pre-season. The Potters are looking to recruit players with the right profile to boost their promotion hopes, after conceding that mistakes were made in the transfer market last summer. Walters has promised to be realistic in their transfer dealings, acknowledging that some top players may be unattainable due to their high price tags. Stoke City fans will be eager to see how the club's transfer business unfolds in the coming weeks, with the new season just around the corner. The club's transfer activity will be crucial in determining their chances of promotion next season. With the right signings, Stoke City could be a force to be reckoned with in the Championship. The Potters have a loyal fan base, and they will be hoping that the club can bring in some exciting new talent to boost their chances of success. The summer transfer window is always a time of excitement and uncertainty for football fans, and Stoke City supporters will be eagerly awaiting news of the club's transfer dealings.