Stoke City are reportedly close to winning the race for 18-year-old Manchester City striker Liam Delap and are now in advanced talks over a loan move after a breakthrough in discussions.

There's been a huge amount of interest in the forward from EFL clubs this summer, with Stoke, Bournemouth, Derby County, Cardiff City, Middlesbrough, and West Bromwich Albion understood to all be keen on the young forward after he turned heads with his performances last term.

Delap scored 27 goals and added six assists in 22 appearances for Man City U23s as well as scoring his first goal in senior professional football.

Late last month, sources exclusively informed Football League World that the Potters were increasingly confident of signing the teenage striker and it seems a deal could be done soon.

According to Football Insider, the Championship outfit are closing in on the signing of Delap.

It is said that following a breakthrough in negotiations with Man City, Stoke are now in advanced talks to sign the England U18 international.

The move would see the 18-year-old join up with his father Rory Delap, who is an ex-Potters player and now a first-team coach at the club.

The Verdict 

On the back of Football League World's exclusive that Stoke were confident of landing Delap last week, it seems they're now in advanced talks over a loan deal for the 18-year-old.

Given the other EFL clubs linked with the striker throughout the summer, this looks a fantastic bit of business for the Potters and could prove vital as Michael O'Neill looks to continue the progress he's made since arriving at the Bet365 Stadium.

As always with the transfer window, there is still time for someone to hijack the deal but things are looking positive for Stoke ahead of the start of the new season.