Stoke City are among several Championship clubs closely monitoring the contract situation of Sheffield Wednesday captain Barry Bannan. The influential midfielder, who turns 36 later this year, has long been considered the face of the Owls, having orchestrated their midfield for over a decade. However, with his current deal set to expire on June 30 and no extension yet in place, speculation around his future is heating up—especially amid the financial uncertainty at Hillsborough.
With just days remaining on Bannan’s contract, Championship sides are circling, sensing a rare opportunity to snap up a seasoned playmaker on a free transfer. According to reporter Fraser Fletcher via X, Stoke City are one of the clubs keenly watching the situation, hoping to lure the veteran into a new challenge during the twilight of his career.
Speaking to Football League World, Stoke analyst Sam Harrison weighed in on the potential transfer. He described Bannan’s possible arrival as a “valuable” move, highlighting the midfielder’s wealth of Championship experience. With the Potters having recently lost seasoned players like Enda Stevens and Lyndon Gooch, Harrison noted that someone of Bannan’s calibre would fill the leadership vacuum in a relatively young squad. He emphasized that the 35-year-old’s presence, both on and off the pitch, could play a pivotal role in nurturing younger players and reinforcing the squad’s mentality.
Harrison pointed to clubs like Sunderland, who balanced youth with veteran leadership during their promotion campaign, as a blueprint Stoke could follow. He believes Bannan’s know-how and ability to control games would be vital in close contests—a quality Stoke has struggled with in recent seasons. While he wouldn’t expect Bannan to start every game, Harrison said he’d be an ideal option to guide the team through key moments, offering composure and game management.
Bannan’s on-field role would likely be that of a rotational midfielder, deployed in situations that require experience and tactical awareness. According to Harrison, the Scotsman may not be a regular starter but would provide depth and balance in the middle of the park. He added that although some fans might initially question the signing due to Bannan’s age, the midfielder would quickly silence any doubts with his performances.
Despite his advancing years, Bannan continues to defy expectations with his energy and vision. Should he become available on a free transfer, Stoke City would be wise to move quickly—securing a proven leader who could make a meaningful impact both now and behind the scenes.
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