Stoke City are reportedly closing in on the signing of Plymouth Argyle defender Maksym Talovierov.
Mark Robins, overseeing his first summer transfer window as Stoke boss, is aiming to reshape the squad after taking over in January. With the Potters yet to secure a top-half Championship finish since their 2018 Premier League relegation, Robins is keen to reverse the club’s fortunes.
According to journalist Pete O’Rourke, Stoke are nearing an agreement for Talovierov, who only joined Plymouth from Austrian club LASK in January for a record fee of around £1.7 million. The 25-year-old Ukraine international made a strong impression during his short stint at Argyle, despite missing part of the season due to a knee injury.
Talovierov managed 11 Championship appearances, scoring once and providing an assist, while also proving effective in duels and tackles. Despite Argyle’s relegation, he was a standout performer under former manager Miron Muslic.
Although under contract with Plymouth until 2028, Talovierov could be set to leave after just half a season. His arrival would significantly bolster Stoke’s thin centre-back options, especially after the exits of Michael Rose, Enda Stevens, Jordan Thompson, and Lynden Gooch. With only Ben Wilmot and Ben Gibson remaining as senior central defenders, depth is urgently needed.
If completed, this deal would mark another key addition for Robins, following the signing of Sorba Thomas, and could be a crucial step toward a more competitive Stoke side next season.
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