A potential stumbling block has emerged amid Stoke City’s reported interest in Leicester City defender Harry Souttar.

The centre-back has been linked with a return to the bet365 Stadium, more than three years after his move to the Foxes. West Ham United, Sheffield United and Wrexham have also been credited with an interest in the 27-year-old.

However, it seems the price tag being placed on Souttar’s head is proving to be a sticking point. Journalist Alan Nixon has reported on Patreon (via Football League World) that the £10 million valuation of the Australia international is putting off his suitors.

With that in mind, it is said Stoke would only be interested in a loan deal. The fee being requested for Souttar is apparently regarded as being too expensive.

Blades boss Chris Wilder has confirmed he is keen on snapping up Souttar. The Leicester man spent time on loan at Bramall Lane during the 2024/25 season.

Following his team’s 2-0 win over Rotherham United on Saturday, Wilder set out his stance on the Aussie. He said an opening bid had been rejected by the Foxes.

“I know people talk about it and say I shouldn’t be talking about other players, but he’s one that obviously has got history with us and we have been linked with him as well,” Wilder told the Sheffield Star.

“We’ve already had conversations with Leicester about taking him. So, the conversations will be ongoing. He’s a player that we obviously like and he had a great time on the pitch for us and off the pitch with the supporters. You know how much they rated him and they valued him.

“So it’s ongoing, but if it’s not to be, it’s not to be. And if it is, then we’ll do what we can do. I’m speaking with the board and Steve Bettis in terms of trying to make something happen and we’ll go from there.”

Asked if Leicester’s £10m valuation could see their focus turn elsewhere, he added: “Well, we identify. We use a data team that chucks up players. We identify players and then about passing the buck, then it’s my job to coach and manage the team.

“But I know we’re trying. So, I should imagine I’ll speak to Steve after this and we’ll see where we are at, with his conversations with the owners as well.”

Souttar joined Stoke at the age of 17 and played 70 times for the club. He was sold to Leicester for £15m in January 2023.