Stoke Close in on Woodgate Deal

STOKE City were close to making Tottenham's former England defender Jonathan Woodgate their first summer signing today.

The 31-year-old centre-half, a free agent after being released by Spurs, could even be flown out to join his new team-mates in Austria if the deal is concluded in time.

He requires a rigorous medical to satisfy Stoke first, however, after playing just four games for Spurs in the last two seasons because of a long-term groin problem.

Stoke will also cover themselves financially by weighing his contract heavily towards his future playing record at the Britannia.

Manager Tony Pulis believes Woodgate is worth the gamble because of the experience he will bring to his back four.

And not for the first time in recent years, Pulis has received a glowing reference from Spurs boss – and close friend – Harry Redknapp over a player's character.

The Middlesbrough-born defender has generated around £38m in transfers during a career which has included stints at Real Madrid and Newcastle.

And the last of his eight England caps came against the Czech Republic at Wembley just three years ago.

Woodgate's signature is unlikely to halt Pulis's search for another defender this summer following his protracted pursuit of Birmingham centre-half Scott Dann, while Sunderland full-back Phil Bardsley is among others he is monitoring.

Meanwhile, West Ham striker Carlton Cole remains firmly on the agenda despite his decision to join his Hammers' team-mates on their trip to Switzerland.

Cole had been set to fly to Austria to join the Stoke squad after City's director of football John Rudge remained behind at the Britannia to accompany him from England.

But failure to agree personal terms with the 28-year-old former England striker has stalled the deal.