Stoke step up Ba pursuit

Sky Sports News understands Stoke have made an offer of £5.9million for Hoffenheim striker Demba Ba.

Potters make £5.9m bid for Hoffenheim striker

Sky Sports News understands Stoke have made an offer of £5.9million for Hoffenheim striker Demba Ba. The Senegal international has attracted widespread interest following a series of impressive performances in the Bundesliga this season. West Ham were thought to be in pole position to land Ba but complications arose when he claimed Hoffenheim were blocking a move. The 25-year-old's determination to secure a switch to the Premier League was so strong that he refused to return to training with Hoffenheim.

Campaign

The German club later admitted they may have to discuss a transfer and Stoke are now thought to have entered the chase by tabling a bid of almost £6million. Tony Pulis is keen to bolster his squad this month as he looks for the Potters to build on an encouraging first half to the campaign. Ba is expected to arrive in England later on Thursday and Stoke will then look to press on with trying to conclude a deal. They are believed to be hopeful of having Ba available for selection for Saturday's home game against Bolton.