news about Stoke City’s transfers as Alex Neil makes his 13th acquisition of the summer.
Mehdi Leris, a wide player for Sampdoria, has been acquired by Stoke City for an unknown sum.
The 25-year-old enters the bet365 Stadium as the second acquisition of the day, joining Nikola Jojic, and becomes the 13th acquisition in an exceptional summer transfer window. An international clearance is required for the three-year contract that Leris has signed.
He is an Algerian international who has primarily played high on the right side in recent seasons, helping Brescia on loan compete for promotion from Serie B before returning to Sampdoria in Serie A as a regular starter. However, throughout his senior career, he has played almost every outfield position.
Leris, who will wear the number 27 jersey, will travel with the team for a Championship match at Millwall on Saturday. He comes to the Potteries with a reputation for his athleticism and work ethic.
According to Stoke technical director Ricky Martin, “we have targeted variety in our forward players throughout the window to give Alex (Neil) and his staff the opportunity to play in different ways for the diverse challenges the Championship presents.”
Mehdi has a solid resume, having played frequently in Serie A and for Algeria at the international level, and he will supplement our attacking options.
He has primarily played right forward but has also proven to be adaptable by converting to right wing-back for Algeria.
Mehdi demonstrates a strong work ethic and perseverance in his play, and both his technical skills and tactical awareness fit our ideal candidate profile for his positions.
“We are thrilled to have brought him to Stoke City during a summer when he was the subject of considerable interest from across Europe.”