STOKE PULL OFF COUP TO LAND STRIKER

The 28-year-old, who was released by the Turkish giants in the summer, has signed an 18-month contract with The Potters.

Oulare is a player of undoubted pedigree. After beginning his career in Belgium with Beveren, he moved to Genk where he really came to prominence scoring 35 goals in 82 games.

This form earned him a £3 million move to Fenerbahce in 1999, but he fell out-of-favour and spent last season at Las Palmas, where again he did well scoring five times in 14 games.

Oulare had trials with Southampton and Bundesliga side Hamburg in the summer, but despite some interest failed to seal a permanent switch to either side.

Stoke director of football John Rudge was over the moon to have captured such a high-calibre striker.

"We are delighted to have landed him," Rudge told Stoke's official website. 

"He has a good track record in European football and has played in the African Nations Cup for his country.

"He is quick, strong and powerful although his match fitness needs bringing back up because he has not played competitively this season while looking for a new club.‚Ç¥

Oulare, born in Guinea, will not require a work permit as he holds a Belgian passport.

Meanwhile, another potential Stoke signing - Norwegian Ole T. Albrigtsen - has revealed his excitement about his proposed move to The Britannia Stadium.

The Norwegian striker scored a hat-trick in a trial game earlier this month and Stoke were looking to complete a deal for him in January, something the player was excited about.

"I am really looking forward to going over," he said.

"I have had quite a buzz since I had a trial over there. Of course I hope to play for Stoke for the next couple of seasons, that would be incredible fun."

It remains to be seen, however, whether Stoke pursue their interest in Albrigtsen, after the signing of Oulare.

Reports in Norway are suggesting that Albrigtsen will sign a one-year deal in January, with an option for a further 18 months.