The last thing Stoke City need after a tricky opening 17 games of the Championship season would be to lose one of their star men. 

Well, that could be what is about to happen as left-back Erik Pieters recently confessed to being open to a move to Newcastle United in the January transfer window.

The club currently sit in 14th place despite being made convincing preseason favourites to win the title in May with the fans growing increasingly frustrated with the club.

But despite the Potter's poor form, Pieters has had an impressive season at left-back, racking up two assists and one goal in 15 appearances in the league.

Apparently, the Magpies were interested in bringing in the Dutchman during the summer transfer window but a deal never materialised.

But with Paul Dummett suffering an injury whilst on international duty, their interest could be reignited during the winter window.

Enough about Dummett's replacement, who could Rowett bring in to replace Pieters?

Here are two options...

Bidwell has been brilliant for Steve McClaren's QPR side this season but his contract is still set to run out at the end of the season.

This makes him extremely attainable for Stoke as the Rs may well be tempted to cash in in order to prevent him leaving for nothing.

He is five years younger than Pieters as well making him a very logical purchase.

Sunderland will probably be keen to offload the Costa Rican in January and he would be a perfect replacement for Pieters.

His attacking contributions are brilliant and probably better than those of the Dutchman making him a logical replacement.