Wolves’ Butland bid
geared up for an auction. Liverpool are thought to be interested and West Ham could also come in if they manage to preserve their Premier League status.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger was also monitoring Butland’s situation but the Frenchman’s decision to leave at the end of the season may have ended the Gunners’ interest.
Stoke are desperate to hang on to the 25-year-old but accept he will want out if they go down.
Wolves, who have already been linked with a move for Butland’s team-mate Joe Allen, have made it clear they are ready to spend big.
Their quest for a top-class keeper comes despite the impressive form of current No.1 John Ruddy. The 31-year-old was brought in from Norwich on a free last summer and has claimed 24 clean sheets as Wolves stormed to the title.
Stoke boss Paul Lambert acknowledges he will struggle to keep Butland if their relegation is confirmed.
Butland is in the race to make the England No.1 spot his own and will definitely be on the plane to Russia.
Even one season in the Championship would be the last thing he needs at this stage of his career.
Wolves could try to get a deal done before Butland flies out to Russia, which may also force Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp to show his hand. TOUGH JOB: Lambert