Hirst Set for Stoke Medical as Johnson Prepares for Loan Move

George Hirst is reportedly on the verge of becoming a Stoke City player, with the striker scheduled to complete his medical later today. Ben Johnson is also expected to join the Championship club on a season-long loan.

According to the Daily Telegraph, Stoke have agreed an initial £6 million fee for Hirst, with a further £4 million potentially payable through performance-related add-ons. The Scotland international is expected to make the switch to the bet365 Stadium, while Johnson will arrive temporarily for the 2026/27 campaign.

Hirst was notably absent from Ipswich Town’s squad for their recent training camp in Germany as negotiations continued over his potential departure. Stoke’s interest in the forward first became apparent towards the end of last month.

The Potters initially preferred to take Hirst on loan, but Ipswich were pushing for a permanent transfer involving the 27-year-old. The two clubs have now seemingly reached an agreement that will see Stoke pay a significant upfront fee.

Johnson, meanwhile, has long been viewed as a likely departure this summer. The defender joined Ipswich as a free agent after leaving West Ham in 2024 but has struggled to secure a consistent starting position.

The London-born player has made 47 appearances for Ipswich, including 27 starts, and has scored three goals. He still has two years remaining on his contract but is now expected to continue his career elsewhere.

Stoke had previously reached an agreement with Ipswich for another defender, Harry Clarke. However, that transfer collapsed earlier this month, allowing Clarke to eventually complete a move to Preston.

Hirst’s departure would represent a significant change for Ipswich given the important role he has played since arriving at Portman Road. He initially joined from Leicester City on loan during the 2022/23 League One campaign before completing a permanent £1.5 million transfer later that summer.

The striker was an important figure during Ipswich’s remarkable run of three promotions in four seasons. Since joining the club permanently, Hirst has accumulated 125 appearances, including 73 starts, and scored 30 goals.

As the son of Sheffield Wednesday legend David Hirst, George has established his own reputation at Ipswich, scoring several crucial goals during the highly successful Kieran McKenna era. His impending move to Stoke would bring his time with the Blues closer to an end while giving the Potters an experienced attacking option for their Championship campaign.