Norwich ready to raid Stoke for Butland – if Potters drop their asking price

NORWICH will launch a raid for England keeper Jack Butland — if the asking price drops come January.

The Canaries were cautious with their cash after promotion in May but would plunge for the right player to help earn them a second season in the Premier League, providing they need one.

Butland’s name is being discussed at Carrow Road and the deal would have a chance if Stoke were prepared to halve their valuation of their goalkeeper.

Norwich would be willing to risk £12-£15million on Butland but the Potters are thought to have wanted at least £25m.

That was too much for Butland’s summer suitors — Bournemouth, Aston Villa and Crystal Palace — but that price may drop in January after his shaky start to the campaign.

He was benched against Leeds yesterday after gifting Preston two goals in a 3-1 defeat last Wednesday.

BUTLAND DILEMMA

The Potters want promotion to the Premier League this season and a return to the huge prize money on offer.

However their form needs to pick up dramatically after four defeats and a draw at the start of their campaign.

Butland needs to be playing in the elite to keep his England place.

Stoke boss Nathan Jones has been backed by the club hierarchy and will be allowed to bring in an ally as director of football.

Jones has struggled to turn the club round.

Mark Cartwright has been axed as technical director and the coach will be allowed to choose his replacement.

David Moyes watched them last week and has close links with a senior Stoke official. But the club will stand by Jones’ three-year plan.