http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/fo...id-to-sign-Michael-Owen-hangs-in-balance.html
Owen is keen to remain in the Premier League after his release from Manchester United at the end of last season and has held talks with Tony Pulis, the Stoke manager.
But the deal looks doomed as Stoke are only prepared to offer the 32 year-old a structured deal based on appearances, due to his poor injury record at United. Owen spent three seasons at Old Trafford but made only four appearances in his final campaign and has not played since Unitedâs Champions League clash with Otelul Galati in November.
Stoke were planning to offer Owen a 12-month deal with the promise of an extension if he plays a certain number of games, a similar deal to the one offered to Jonathan Woodgate last summer. But Owenâs representatives are believed to be seeking a more lucrative package and Stoke are now looking at other forwards, with Spursâ England international Jermain Defoe a likely target if fringe players are sold to raise money.
Owen is keen to remain in the Premier League after his release from Manchester United at the end of last season and has held talks with Tony Pulis, the Stoke manager.
But the deal looks doomed as Stoke are only prepared to offer the 32 year-old a structured deal based on appearances, due to his poor injury record at United. Owen spent three seasons at Old Trafford but made only four appearances in his final campaign and has not played since Unitedâs Champions League clash with Otelul Galati in November.
Stoke were planning to offer Owen a 12-month deal with the promise of an extension if he plays a certain number of games, a similar deal to the one offered to Jonathan Woodgate last summer. But Owenâs representatives are believed to be seeking a more lucrative package and Stoke are now looking at other forwards, with Spursâ England international Jermain Defoe a likely target if fringe players are sold to raise money.