The summer transfer window is a crazy time, with clubs linked with enough players to fill ten squads. 

With the internet now the primary source of news and views, everyone is desperate to get the scoops and the exclusives. That leads to fervent speculation and rumours throughout the summer months.

That is never more prevalent than with sides dropping out of the Premier League. They have three options available to them, all of which are widely discussed by the media. They can spend big on top class players, spend big on Championship quality players, or stick with what they have and hope it is good enough.

Stoke had a strong squad, but they've looked to move players in where they can. It hasn't worked just yet, they've found themselves amongst the early strugglers even if they don't expect to stay there.

However, if they'd pulled off the summer business they were rumoured to be doing, it could be very different. Here are two summer signings Stoke City missed out on which could have changed their poor start to the season.

All it would have taken is a sensible bid in the first place. Stoke correctly identified James Chester as a top Championship defender, a player with the energy to make a difference but the experience of the division as well.

The faltered with a bid, took too much time hoping that Villa might sell on the cheap. When their financial situation changed, Stoke had missed out on Chester.

If only they'd offered the going rate straight off, they might have been more solid in the opening exchanges.

He might be a Premier League player now, but his goals last season proved he was a gem for any Championship side.

Derby were keen to cash in and Rowett managed him last season, it all seemed very neat and tidy. All that was missing was a bid, the sort of firm interest and decisive move that good clubs make in the market.

Now he's at Burnley and Stoke City supporters are lamenting what might have been.