Stoke City boss Mark Hughes has told any potential suitors to forget about signing goalkeeper Jack Butland.
Butland has firmly established himself as Stoke’s number one this season following Asmir Begovic’s summer move to Chelsea.
The 22-year-old England international signed a four-year deal with the club in March but it has not stopped speculation linking him with a move away.
Premier League rivals Liverpool and Everton have been credited with an interest, however Hughes has stressed Butland is going nowhere.
He said: “He’s progressing well but he’s very early into his career development as a number one keeper. People are aware of him – and they have been for a long time.
“Jack forced his way into the England squad when he was 19 but he needs a season-in-season-out of week-in-week-out in the Premier League. He’s had a great career progression, every step he’s taken he’s dealt with.
“Now it’s about consolidating himself in a very good Premier League team. That’s the challenge for him.”
Stoke, who were beaten 2-0 at Sunderland in the last round of fixtures, host Manchester City on Saturday.
Stoke had been in fine form prior to the defeat to the Black Cats, with seven points from a possible nine, and will be eager to bounce back although they face a big test against top-of-the-table City.
A win for the Potters is priced at 5.25 and the draw is 3.80.
League leaders City are 1.62 to come away from the Britannia Stadium with all three points.
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