Stoke City are reportedly unlikely to clinch the signing of Thomas Ince this month.

The Premier League outfit are said to have held talks with Ince yesterday.

The England Under-21 international has been given permission by Blackpool to leave the club this month on loan ahead of an expected permanent move at the end of the season.

According to The Sentinel, Ince would prefer a loan switch to the Britannia Stadium, but the Potters are believed to only be interested in a long-term option.

The 21-year-old has already spoken with Swansea City, and is expected to hold talks with Sunderland and Hull City today.