Gary Rowett knows that he will be expected to guide Stoke City back to the Premier League at the first time of asking after making the move from Derby County.

The Potters boast a strong squad and whilst some departures are inevitable, with players like Jack Butland and Xherdan Shaqiri sure to leave, however they have been handed a major boost with Joe Allen close to signing a new deal.

As well as that, Rowett will be backed with some serious money to ensure his side are well equipped for the challenges that lie ahead.

Here we look at three signings that could turn them into contenders for automatic promotion and they are three players that have already been heavily linked with moves to the bet365 Stadium...

The Watford striker has been suggested as a £14m buy and he would be a real statement of intent for the Championship club.

He has proven himself as a top Championship striker over the years and has the pace, power and finishing ability to fire the side to promotion.

Similarly, the Wolves man would be another big signing for Stoke. With great movement and and another fine finisher, he could form a devastating partnership with Gray for Rowett's men.

As with Gray, Afobe is also proven at this level and at £12m would be a smart signing.

With Shaqiri sure to depart and Ramadan Sobhi likely to follow, bringing in wide players is another target for Rowett.

And, he is clearly a huge fan of West Brom's McClean and has already had bids rejected for the Ireland international.

With pace and a real direct style he would be an effective signing.