Early this season, Jonathan Walters' future at Stoke was uncertain. His contract was scheduled to end this summer and he wanted to remain at the Britannia. Stoke offered the Ireland international a new deal but it was one which Walters felt undervalued him as a player.
A transfer request followed late in the transfer window, though a move away from Stoke did not materialise. In November, the matter was resolved with the player signing a new two and a half year deal. That will finish in the summer of 2018.
Walters time at Stoke, where he has been since 2010, could end before that.
According to The Sun, newly-promoted Middlesbrough are interested in Walters.
Boro were automatically promoted to the Premier League on the final day of the season after a 1-1 draw with Brighton. Their promotion was based on defence rather than attack, conceding less than any other team in the Championship but also scoring less than any side in the top six.
The club believe Walters, who could be allowed leave for around £2.5 million, would provide the Premier League experience which their side lacks.
Walters made 33 appearances in all for Stoke this season scoring eight goals. Though, he only started 18 games in the Premier League.
Picture credit: Ramsey Cardy / SPORTSFILE
