Plymouth Argyle Confirms Maksym Talovierov Transfer to Stoke City

Plymouth Argyle have confirmed that Maksym Talovierov, their club-record signing from Austrian club LASK Linz, is close to completing a transfer to Championship side Stoke City. The 25-year-old Ukrainian international, who made 13 appearances and scored two goals including in the FA Cup against Manchester City, joined Argyle in January but will now return to the second tier following Plymouth's relegation. Head coach Tom Cleverley expressed disappointment over losing Talovierov but acknowledged it as a natural consequence of relegation and praised the player's professionalism and respect shown to the club. Stoke City have signed Talovierov on a three-year deal, with Plymouth recouping their £1.7 million transfer fee and securing a sell-on clause for potential future profit. The move represents a step up for Talovierov as he aims to bolster his chances of making Ukraine's World Cup squad. Plymouth are focusing on building a motivated and united squad despite the departures linked to relegation.