Stoke City have completed the loan signing of Everton defender Cuco Martina.

The club have confirmed that the defender’s move to the Bet365 Stadium will be official, subject to FA and EFL clearance.

Primarily a right-back, the 28-year-old  has made for than 40 Premier League appearances and can also be deployed at centre-half and even as a left-back.

Martina has found himself out of favour at Everton this season having not been named in their 25-man squad after the transfer window had closed.

Having failed to make an appearance this year, missing out on the opening day draw to Wolverhampton Wanderers, the defender has now been loaned out.

The former Southampton man played 28 times for the Toffees last year and now adds defensive versatility to the Stoke team. 

Gary Rowett had been on the lookout of another defensive option, and with the arrival of the Everton man, his pursuit has paid dividends.

The Stoke boss told the club’s official site: “Cuco adds size, strength and power to our back line and he has shown in the Premier League that he can play in a variety of positions."

A trip to Deepdale to take on Preston North End this Saturday could be the potential debut for Martina if included in Rowett’s squad.

The Verdict

This is a brilliant piece of business.

The defender his versatile and can play anywhere along the back line; he will be an invaluable asset for Gary Rowett’s men this season.

Stoke have struggled at the back so far this season shipping four goals in their opening two games, and if that rate persists then, they will be hard-pushed to make a promotion challenge.

The 28-year-old has vast experience and joins fellow Toffees team-mate Ashley Williams at the Potters. 

It is hard to say much can be wrong with this deal as it is an excellent bit of business form Rowett and the Stoke board.

Stoke fans... Thoughts?