Stoke City target Erik Pieters?

Mark Hughes has reportedly identified Erik Pieters as his first transfer target since his appointment as Stoke City manager.

The Welshman has reportedly made signing a left-back one of his major priorities during the early part of his stint at the Britannia Stadium and believes that Dutch international Pieters is the ideal candidate.

PSV ­Eindhoven would be reluctant to part with the 24-year-old, but could be tempted into doing business by an offer of £4m, according to The Mirror.

Pieters was close to signing for Newcastle United last year, but the move was cancelled after the defender suffered a broken metatarsal in his left foot, which ruled him out for nine months.