Stoke City are chasing Schalke striker Eric Choupo-Moting.
The Sunday Mirror says the Cameroon star has been scouted by senior Potters figures in the past few weeks.
Stoke boss Mark Hughes needs to arm himself with insurance should the clause be triggered in Wilfried Bony's contract that would leave him short up front.
The Ivorian, on loan from Manchester City, may be on his way to China if a Super League club makes an offer for his services.
And that will leave Hughes in need of cover.