Stephen Ireland set for Stoke City exit?

Stoke City midfielder Stephen Ireland is the subject of interest from former clubs Aston Villa and Newcastle United.

The 29-year-old has struggled to make himself a regular under Mark Hughes this season, and this has led to claims that he could be offloaded in the winter transfer window.

TalkSPORT says the Villains and Magpies are closely tracking the player's situation at the Britannia Stadium.

Adding to this, both clubs would be eyeing a temporary deal for the midfielder with an obligation for a permanent switch in the summer.

Ireland spent four years at Villa Park, where he also had a brief loan stint with the Magpies.