Report: Stoke are frontrunners for Everton defender Matthew Pennington

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Stoke City are reportedly frontrunners in the pursuit of Everton defender Matthew Pennington.

According to the Stoke Sentinel, the Potters are joined by Derby County and Wigan Athletic as potential suitors for the 24-year-old.

It is understood that it’s Stoke who are winning the race for the centre-back.

The report details that he only signed a new three-year deal with Everton last summer, keeping the door open for more loan exits in the future in search of regular first-team action.

It’s unclear on if Stoke’s interest is definitely for a loan next year, but they certainly look favourites to land him in some capacity.

Pennington was overlooked by Everton boss Marco Silva for first-team contention this campaign, but he did impress in the Championship with Ipswich Town despite his relegation.

TBR’s View:

Pennington turns 25 in October and it looks unlikely that he can carve out a career at Goodison Park.

The defender didn’t look out of place during his nine senior appearances for the Toffees, but looks far more comfortable in the Championship and could be a strong signing for Stoke.

Silva needs to try be ruthless in building a squad that can challenge for European football next year and that means shifting out the deadwood.

Pennington should be offloaded on a permanent basis and Everton already have a good rapport with Stoke, after loaning them Ashley Williams for the last year.