Stoke City are believed to be interested in signing former Wigan shot-stopper Ali Al Habsi as they look to bolster their goalkeeping stocks with the departure Asmir Begovic seemingly imminent.

Begovic has been the subject of heavy interest from Premier League giants Manchester United and Chelsea.

It is understood England U21 goalkeeper Jack Butland will replace Begovic as Stoke's number one gloveman, should the Bosnian depart.

However, the Daily Mail is reporting that Stoke boss Mark Hughes has already lined-up Al Habsi as a potential back-up for Butland.

Al Habsi is currently a free agent after leaving Wigan at the end of last season, but has received an offer from Reading, who he has been training with the past week. However, the Omani international now has an alternative option to consider following Stoke's interest.