adminLee Hendrie Weighs in as Ipswich and Stoke Battle for Man City Striker Divin Mubam.
Former Premier League midfielder Lee Hendrie has shared his insight on the growing transfer tussle between Stoke City and Ipswich Town, with both Championship sides keen on signing Manchester City’s promising young striker, Divin Mubama.
Stoke, preparing for their first full season under new boss Mark Robins, are aiming to build momentum after a difficult campaign.
Robins managed to steer the Potters clear of relegation, and now hopes to inject fresh energy into the squad for a more ambitious push in 2024/25.
Meanwhile, Ipswich Town, recently relegated from the Premier League, are targeting an immediate return to the top flight. Despite losing star striker Liam Delap to Chelsea for £30m after a release clause was triggered, Kieran McKenna’s side are expected to be among the front-runners this season, alongside Leicester City and Southampton.
With both clubs actively exploring options to bolster their attacking lines ahead of the new season — now just six weeks away — Mubama has emerged as a prime target. The 20-year-old has impressed with his strength, directness, and goal-scoring prowess at youth level, including for England’s U20s.
Transfer Saga in Motion
Town’s interest in Mubama was first revealed by trusted journalist Fabrizio Romano late last month, with the East Anglian club reportedly making an official enquiry. Romano also stated that Manchester City value the former West Ham striker at around £10 million, having signed him for £2 million last summer. French side Lille have also been credited with interest.
According to journalist Fraser Fletcher, there’s a “real possibility” Mubama could join Stoke on loan, with the Potters also targeting Everton’s Youssef Chermiti for a similar move.
Hendrie’s Verdict
Speaking exclusively to Football League World, Hendrie said:
“Stoke are looking to bring in Mubama on loan from Man City, and I know Ipswich are in for him too. They’re obviously desperate after losing Delap.”
He continued, “Mubama’s a powerful young striker — direct, strong, and capable of linking play. He’s proven himself in the Under-21s, and he’s been around top clubs like West Ham and now City.”
“There’s a lot to like about him. Young players like him are developing quickly, and the Championship is becoming a perfect stage for them to make a name. Whether it’s Ipswich or Stoke, this would be a great signing.”
Hendrie concluded by saying: “With Ipswich losing Delap, they might push harder. One way or another, Mubama is heading to a Championship club — it’s just a matter of when and where.”
Why the Move Makes Sense for Mubama
As Hendrie pointed out, Mubama could benefit greatly from a Championship loan. Many top-tier strikers have honed their skills in the EFL, and Mubama has already shown his goal-scoring touch — netting 26 goals in 39 Premier League 2 games, including 16 in just 13 matches last season.
He also made a mark in senior football, scoring for Man City in the FA Cup against Salford City in January.
However, transitioning to regular first-team football in the Championship is a significant step up. For Ipswich, paying a steep fee would be a calculated risk, while Stoke’s proposed loan deal could offer a balanced opportunity for development — one that benefits all parties, including Mubama’s long-term prospects at City.
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