Stoke City Striker Emre Tezgel Signs New Two-Year Deal, Loan Move Expected

Emre Tezgel, the 19-year-old striker and Stoke City's youngest ever first-team player, has signed a new two-year contract with the Championship club, quelling transfer rumors involving Leeds United and Fenerbahce. Despite committing his future to Stoke, Tezgel and the club's management acknowledge the need for regular first-team football to aid his development, with a loan move likely to provide this opportunity. Sporting Director Jonathan Walters highlighted that Stoke aims to build on Tezgel's previous loan experience at MK Dons and is open to loaning him out again if the right opportunity arises. Tezgel himself expressed a desire to gain experience and grow, admitting that his last three years at Stoke have been challenging due to injuries and limited playing time. The club and player are aligned on a development plan focused on increasing his physicality and adapting to Championship demands to secure a regular place in the future. This strategy reflects Stoke's commitment to nurturing their academy graduate while protecting his long-term potential.