Stoke City confirm two new signings as Ryan Shawcross bolsters under-21s squad

Stoke City have completed deals for Japhet Matondo and Wiktor Gromek to join their under-21s squad.

Forward Matondo, the 18-year-old brother of former Stoke loan winger Rabbi Matondo, is arriving for an undisclosed fee from Cardiff City, where he was very highly rated as he has come through the ranks. Matondo Sr played 11 times for the club back in 2021 and is now with Rangers in Scotland.

Midfielder Gromek, aged 19, has signed from Italian club Lecce having previously had spells in the youth set ups at Leicester and Burnley. He played in 30 matches for Lecce’s under-19s in 2023/24, including in the UEFA Youth League campaign

The duo, whose transfers are both subject to international clearance, come into Ryan Shawcross’s squad ahead of a friendly at Newcastle Town on Sunday (1pm).

Academy director Gareth Owen said: “Japhet is an exciting talent who brings an international pedigree having featured for Wales, most recently in their under-19s. He is a dynamic wide player, with genuine pace and the ability to go both ways when he gets at defenders.

“Japhet received really good references from coaches within the Football Association of Wales and we’re looking forward to seeing him flourish in our environment.”