Stoke close on Jese Rodriguez loan from PSG, says Guillem Balague

Stoke City are closing on the loan signing of Jese Rodriguez from Paris Saint-Germain, according to Guillem Balague.

The former Real Madrid forward, who spent last season on loan at Las Palmas, is understood to want to play under Mark Hughes, and an announcement is expected imminently.

"Jese's one-year loan move to Stoke is going to be announced very soon," Balague told Sky Sports.

The 24-year-old has battled with injuries and poor form after he left the Bernabeu in 2016, but Balague believes a fresh challenge in the Premier League will rejuvenate the Spaniard.

"Jese's progression has stopped in recent years with injuries, and an infection he had while he was recuperating," Balague added.

"That meant his progression has stopped, there's no doubt about it. Now he writes Reggaeton songs and seems distracted from football.

"So, I think he wants to test himself in a place where he will be playing and where he is going to be challenged.

"There is, however, a big question mark of how good he can be, but the loan option counteracts that.

"Four or five years ago, he wanted to win the Ballon d'Or, but those injuries have altered his mentality and physique.

"It's a risk signing him because he needs the love of everybody, but he can play as a centre-forward or a winger and has talent in abundance.

"I can't wait to see him in the Premier League and see him trying when things don't go his way."