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Stoke claim Austin deal is done

Stoke have revealed they have beaten off competition to secure the signature of Rudolph Austin.

The Potters were tipped off about the Jamaica international and entered into negotiations with his club, Portmore United.

Doubts were raised over the deal when it emerged clubs in America and Brazil had entered the race, but Stoke claim a deal has been struck.

"It wasn't a straightforward negotiation with Portmore because we had some competition," Potters chief executive Tony Scholes told BBC Radio Stoke.

"We've done the deal to sign him. We now need to get the work permit."

Stoke are revving themselves up for life in The Premier League and giant striker Jon Parkin is determined to fight for his place despite making just four league starts last season.

He said: "As far as I am concerned, I am a Stoke City player for the next two years. Everyone is massively looking forward to this."