Stoke City have been linked with a double raid on Ipswich Town, with reports connecting the Potters to striker George Hirst and defender Ben Johnson as the Championship club seeks to add firepower and defensive cover ahead of the next fixture run.

What the links mean for Stoke

According to a BBC Radio Stoke report featuring Richard Woodward, host of the Ipswich Town podcast Blue Monday, Stoke have emerged as suitors for both players. Woodward's perspective carries weight: he follows Ipswich closely and offered a telling line about Hirst, suggesting the striker was once expected to contribute at a higher level. The precise nature of any approach, whether a loan or a permanent deal, has not been confirmed.

For a Stoke side that suffered a heavy defeat to Swansea City in their most recent outing, the need for attacking reinforcement is plain. Hirst is a physical centre-forward who offers aerial presence and hold-up play, attributes that could address a specific gap in the Potters' current options up front.

George Hirst: the profile

Hirst, son of former Sheffield Wednesday striker David Hirst, has carved out a reputation as a reliable second-tier operator. His blend of strength and movement makes him a credible target for a Championship club looking to add a focal point to its attack. Woodward noted that Ipswich had considered him capable of Premier League involvement, which speaks to the level of regard the player held at his current club, but first-team opportunities have been limited.

A move to Stoke would give Hirst a platform to play regularly in the second tier and rebuild his momentum. Whether the Potters can agree terms with Ipswich remains to be seen, but the reported interest signals that Stoke's recruitment team have identified him as a genuine target rather than a speculative name.

Ben Johnson: defensive depth

The reported interest in Johnson addresses a different part of the pitch. The versatile defender can operate at right back or in a wider defensive role, offering cover across the backline. Championship football demands squad depth across a 46-game season, and a player capable of filling multiple positions holds obvious value for a manager trying to stay competitive through injuries and suspensions.

Again, no fee or personal terms have been reported, and the link comes via an Ipswich-focused source rather than from Stoke directly. Supporters should treat the speculation accordingly, though the source's familiarity with the Ipswich dressing room lends the report some credibility.

The bigger picture for Stoke

Stoke's transfer activity this window reflects a squad in transition. The Potters have been beaten heavily in the Championship already this season and the pressure on the club's recruitment staff to find solutions is significant. Adding Hirst would give the attack a different dimension; adding Johnson would shore up a defence that has looked exposed.

Both pieces of business, if they materialise, would represent pragmatic rather than glamorous additions: experienced players who know the second tier and could contribute quickly. That kind of signing often proves more valuable over a long Championship campaign than a headline name who takes months to settle.

Whether Stoke can push either deal over the line will depend on Ipswich's willingness to sell or loan, and on the players' own ambitions. The coming days should clarify the Potters' true position in both pursuits.

Frequently asked

Who is George Hirst and why are Stoke City interested in him?
George Hirst is a Championship-level striker currently at Ipswich Town. Stoke City have been linked with him as they look to add a physical focal point to their attack during the current transfer window.
Is Ben Johnson leaving Ipswich Town to join Stoke City?
No deal has been confirmed. Stoke City have been reported as interested in the versatile Ipswich Town defender, but the link is at the rumour stage and no terms have been agreed according to available reports.
How many signings have Stoke City made this transfer window?
The specific number of signings Stoke City have completed this window has not been confirmed in available reports. The club are actively seeking reinforcements, with Hirst and Johnson among the names linked.