Royston Drenthe has been told he can leave Real Madrid and reports in Spain suggest Stoke are right at the front of the queue oin the race to sign him before todays transfer deadline.
Drenthe, 23, is also being linked with Hercules and Fulham but the Potters, along with the Cottagers, head the race with both clubs having had extensive discussions with Real about the deal.
The Dutchman, who can play right back as well as his preferred right wing position, has been told by new Madrid manager Jose Mourinho that he is not in his plans and is now in a race against time to get himself a new club before todays 6pm transfer deadline.