Mark Hughes has reportedly identified Erik Pieters as his first transfer target since his appointment as Stoke City manager.
The Welshman has reportedly made signing a left-back one of his major priorities during the early part of his stint at the Britannia Stadium and believes that Dutch international Pieters is the ideal candidate.
PSV Eindhoven would be reluctant to part with the 24-year-old, but could be tempted into doing business by an offer of £4m, according to The Mirror.
Pieters was close to signing for Newcastle United last year, but the move was cancelled after the defender suffered a broken metatarsal in his left foot, which ruled him out for nine months.
