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CONFIRMED: Stoke follow up John Guidetti loan with permanent deal for Stephen Ireland
STOKE CITY have struck their second deal of the day after clinching Aston Villa midfielder Stephen Ireland's signature on a permanent deal.
The Republic of Ireland international, who had been on a season-long loan, has joined for an undisclosed fee after the club completed a loan deal for Manchester City striker John Guidetti.
"Stephen is a talented footballer and has shown what he’s capable of since he joined us," Stoke boss Mark Hughes told the club's official website.
"We’re delighted to have made his switch a permanent arrangement as it also gives us the opportunity to bring in another player on loan if necessary," Hughes said about the deal."
Ireland joins Stoke with a wealth of experience having clocked up more than 140 appearances for Manchester City before joining Villa in 2010.
The Guidetti deal meanwhile will hopefully give Hughes more scope to secure further loan moves before the transfer window closes.