Stoke boss Mark Hughes wants to deal in the transfer market before the close of the window on September 2. Hughes said: "We're in the market, we're active and we're working around the clock to try and conclude the deals that will improve us.

"We have to be patient with signing players. It has been frustrating but we're confident of having new players through the door soon.

"In terms of players coming in, it could go right down to the wire. Some deals go quickly and others take time."