By Yoon Dong-geun, EPN Enpinow — Bae Jun-ho is drawing attention as speculation mounts over a possible summer move away from Stoke City.
On the 27th, U.K. outlet Stoke-on-Trent Live assessed Stoke City's season and reported that Bae Jun-ho's future at the club remains uncertain.
This season Stoke finished 17th in the league with 15 wins, 10 draws and 20 losses, settling into the lower half of the table despite an early three-game winning streak.
Stoke-on-Trent Live argued the club has lost momentum and motivation after settling into midtable, and the report links that reality to transfer speculation around Bae despite his contributions.
Since joining in 2023, Bae has made 133 official appearances across three seasons, scoring eight goals and providing 13 assists.
He opened his account against Fulham in the FA Cup, showing he can compete at a higher level, but Stoke has assessed that he hasn't fully showcased his technical and athletic attributes.
Specifically, the club believes it needs a player who can deliver more direct production from the attacking midfield position, signaling that Bae's role could be subject to change.
Turkish outlets Photomac and SPORX reported last month that Besiktas is looking to strengthen in the summer window and is considering Bae as a candidate for the attacking midfield spot.
Stoke has not ruled out a midfield overhaul as it chases a turnaround, and the club is expected to reassess Bae's role as part of any rebuild.
With the summer transfer window approaching, Bae's future at Stoke has become one of the club's key variables.
As the 2026 World Cup in North America approaches, Bae’s next steps and his chances of making the national team are drawing extra attention.
South Korea's final squad will be announced on the 16th.
Photos: Stoke, Bae Jun-ho's social media
