Aaron Cresswell is set to join Stoke City on a one-year contract, with an option for another year, after leaving West Ham United as a free agent.

That’s according to Alex Crook of talkSPORT, who reports that the veteran full-back will continue his career in the Championship after 11 years at West Ham.

Cresswell completes media duties at Stoke as move nears

Cresswell has already been spotted at Stoke’s Clayton Wood training ground, where he was photographed in the club’s kit while carrying out media duties.

As reported by Claret & Hugh, the images suggest the move is virtually complete despite no official announcement from the club just yet.

The photos show the defender wearing Stoke’s red and white stripes as he gears up for life at the bet365 Stadium.

Stoke win race for Cresswell after interest from rivals

Before settling on Stoke, Cresswell was linked with several clubs following the end of his West Ham contract. Bristol City were among the contenders and even held talks with the defender during their play-off campaign. That move broke down once their promotion push fell short.

Birmingham City and Ipswich Town, his former club, were also understood to be in the mix. Stoke ultimately secured the deal, reportedly helped by the presence of manager Mark Robins, who Cresswell is said to be eager to work with.

Related Article: Aaron Cresswell Testimonial Update Shared After Exit Confirmed

West Ham goodbye after more than 300 appearances

Cresswell signed for West Ham from Ipswich in 2014 and went on to make over 300 appearances for the Hammers. A consistent presence in the squad across several managers, he played his part in the club’s European runs and memorable campaigns in the Premier League.

Claret & Hugh say Cresswell finished last season in good form and had a number of offers when his deal expired. They described him as “a Premier League-calibre player” and backed him to be a success in the Championship.

What Stoke gain from the Cresswell signing

At 34, Cresswell brings a wealth of Premier League experience to the Stoke squad as they aim to push on in the Championship. The move might be a drop in level, but he adds proven quality, composure, and leadership to the Potters’ defence.

For Cresswell, it’s a new chapter and a fresh challenge outside the top flight, while for Stoke, his arrival sends a clear signal about their ambitions going into the new season.

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