Stoke Move to Tie Down Veteran Defender Aaron Cresswell on New Deal

Stoke City are ready to open talks over a new one-year deal for veteran defender Aaron Cresswell as they bid to keep one of their most experienced stars at the Bet365 Stadium, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

SportsBoom understands the Potters are keen to extend Cresswell’s stay beyond this summer, with his current contract due to expire in July.

The former West Ham United favourite proved an important figure during a difficult Championship campaign last season, making 25 appearances and bringing vital leadership to the dressing room.

Cresswell, now 36, still believes he has plenty left to offer despite clocking up more than 600 senior appearances during a glittering professional career.

The three-time England international spent 11 years in the Premier League with West Ham and was part of the side that lifted the UEFA Europa Conference League trophy in 2023.

RESPECTED

He also picked up the club’s Player of the Year award during his time in East London and remains hugely respected throughout the game for his professionalism and consistency.

Before his successful spell with the Hammers, Cresswell made his name at Ipswich Town after starting with boyhood club Tranmere Rovers.

Despite Stoke’s disappointing campaign, insiders believe Cresswell enjoyed his first season in Staffordshire and is open to staying on for another year.

But SportsBoom understands his final decision may depend on the future of manager Mark Robins amid growing uncertainty surrounding the Stoke boss.

Robins has faced mounting pressure after the Potters finished 17th in the Championship, ending the season just eight points above the relegation zone despite ambitions of challenging for the play-offs.

Stoke managed only 15 wins from 46 league games and finished 18 points adrift of sixth-placed Hull City.

HUNGER

Speaking previously about extending his career, Cresswell said: “I still feel fit and hungry. I look after myself, and I still love playing every day.”

He added, “As long as I feel I can contribute and help a team, then I want to carry on.”

Those comments will encourage Stoke supporters, although the experienced left back is also attracting interest from elsewhere in the Championship.

Fellow Championship sides Preston North End and Portsmouth are both understood to be monitoring his situation closely in case contract talks with Stoke hit complications this summer.

Even at 36, Cresswell’s vast experience, winning mentality and leadership qualities continue to make him one of the Championship’s most respected senior professionals.