Potters ready to fight for Bruno Martins Indi

Securing Martins Indi, aged 25, on a permanent deal has been one of Mark Hughes's priorities this summer. having seen the defender return to parent club Porto at the end of a stellar season on loan.

Club sources insist he remains very much a wanted man, even as news broke today claiming Crystal Palace were trying to scupper their plans, with a fee apparently agreed.

Rivals for his signature are an added complication but not unexpected as the saga drags on. Stoke must now quickly push for a breakthrough in their own negotiations with Porto, which have proven frustrating over recent months as goalposts have been moved.

The player himself has been keen on a move back to the Potteries, where he formed a solid partnership at the heart of defence with Ryan Shawcross. He featured in every game since joining near the start of last term, quickly getting to grips with life in the Premier League even if he arrived without a proper pre-season.

The Potters are still waiting on a decision from Kurt Zouma, who they hope to sign on a season-long loan from Chelsea. They have held encouraging talks with the 22-year-old, who is expected to tie up a new long-term deal at Stamford Bridge before heading out.