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Bruno returns

Stoke set to complete the £7m signing of Porto defender Bruno Martins Indi after impressive loan spell

Dutch international became a fan favourite at the Potters last season and boss Mark Hughes will eye this as a bargain.

STOKE are on the verge on announcing Bruno Martins Indi for a fee of just over £7million.

The Potters have been locked in negotiations with Porto all summer for the central defender following his successful loan spell last season.

 Stoke City are close to completing the signing of Bruno Martins Indi
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Stoke City are close to completing the signing of Bruno Martins IndiCredit: PA:Press Association
 The central defender impressed on-loan at the Potters last season
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The central defender impressed on-loan at the Potters last seasonCredit: Reuters

It was believed a deal was previously dead in the water after the Portuguese side were playing hardball over his price-tag.

But the Dutch international has reportedly held showdown talks with Porto and has made it clear he wants a return to the Premier League with Stoke.

Boss Mark Hughes wants Martins Indi to play in a back three alongside Ryan Shawcross and Chelsea loanee Kurt Zouma.

Crystal Palace were keen on pipping their league rivals to his signature but have cooled their interest.

Martins Indi knows he will be guaranteed regular first-team football at the Bet365 Stadium and has already won the fans over with his performances.

Hughes will be hoping to conclude the deal before Saturday's clash with Everton.

 Stoke had been haggling with Porto all summer over a deal for Bruno Martins Indi
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Stoke had been haggling with Porto all summer over a deal for Bruno Martins IndiCredit: PA:Empics Sport
 Stoke boss Mark Hughes will opt for three at the back with Ryan Shawcross, Kurt Zouma and Bruno Martins Indi
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Stoke boss Mark Hughes will opt for three at the back with Ryan Shawcross, Kurt Zouma and Bruno Martins IndiCredit: Rex Features

The move will cast further doubts over the futures of Marc Muniesa and Philipp Wollscheid.

Both defenders have failed to convince Hughes as the Stoke boss struggles to find buyers.

Martins Indi looks set to become the second signing in quick succession after landing ex-Schalke forward Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting on a three-year deal.


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