BURNLEY are expecting to add versatile Stoke City defender Ryan Shotton to the list of new signings before the weekend.

Shotton is expected to sign ahead of Saturday’s visit of Cardiff City, although the timing of his transfer and nature of the deal have yet to be finalised.

Burnley were hoping to get the 22-year-old on a permanent deal, for around £1m, but faced stiff competition from rival Championship clubs, notably Ipswich Town.

But the Tractor Boys’ £1.5m offer has not been enough to lure Shotton, who shares the same agent as Martin Paterson.

He has made it clear he wants a move to Turf Moor after being made aware of Howe’s ambition for the club.

The improved bid from Ipswich has threatened to throw a spanner in the works as Stoke may now favour a loan move, although I understand manager Tony Pulis is prepared to sell.

Any deal may also have to wait until after the Premier League club’s involvement in the Europa League qualifier on Thursday.

Shotton came off the bench in Stoke’s first game against Chelsea and could well be involved in the game against Swiss Super League side FC Thun.

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