Mark Hughes wants Stoke goalkeeper Asmir Begovic to fill the void left by Mark Schwarzer’s move to Arsenal. Hughes faces stiff competition from Celtic and Chelsea for the services of Begovic. A loan move for Shay Given, who Hughes bought at Manchester City, is also an option but his wages could prove to be a big stumbling block.
Begovic transferred to Stoke from Pompey eight months ago and has made just four appearances for the Potters, playing second fiddle to Thomas Sorenson. Chelsea have made a £4 million offer for the Bosnian custodian and Mark Hughes will have to match the bid. The prospect of playing in the first-team at Craven Cottage will tilt the scales in Hughes’ favour. Chelsea can’t offer first team football to Begovic who will have to play as an understudy to Petr Cech.
Fulham had rejected a £3 million bid for Schwarzer last week. But the Australian goalkeeper has his heart set on a move to the Emirates stadium and Hughes would not want to keep an unhappy player at the club. Schwarzer is expected to complete his move this week leaving Fulham with very less time to find a replacement.
Also Get the very Latest Football Transfer News, Rumours and Gossip direct to your email.