Danny Imray has completed a permanent move to Championship rivals Stoke City, the club announced on Tuesday. The Jamaican winger, who spent last season on loan at West Bromwich Albion, has signed a three-year contract with an option for a further year. The transfer fee is undisclosed but understood to be in the region of £2 million, a significant sum for a player who had only one year remaining on his Brighton & Hove Albion contract.
Loan Success at West Brom
Imray, 24, joined West Brom on a season-long loan from Brighton in July 2023. He made 28 appearances in all competitions, scoring 7 goals and providing 5 assists. His pace and directness on the wing made him a fan favorite at The Hawthorns, where he often drew comparisons to former loan star Grady Diangana. West Brom finished 12th in the Championship, and Imray’s contributions were key to their mid-table security. Manager Carlos Corberan utilized him primarily on the right wing, but he also featured as a central attacking midfielder.
Stoke City’s New Signing
Stoke City manager Steven Schumacher expressed his delight at securing Imray’s signature. 'Danny is a player we have admired for some time. He brings quality and energy to our attack, and we are excited to integrate him into our squad,' Schumacher said. Stoke finished 17th last season and are looking to improve their offensive options after scoring only 52 goals in 46 league matches. Imray is expected to compete with Andre Vidigal and Mehmet Erol for a starting spot on the flank.
Imray’s Career Path
Imray began his career at Brighton’s academy, progressing through the youth ranks before making his senior debut in 2020 against Burton Albion in the EFL Cup. He later had loan spells at Portsmouth in League One and then West Brom in the Championship. At Portsmouth, he scored 4 goals in 20 appearances, helping the club reach the playoff semi-finals. The move to Stoke represents a permanent step up for the player, who is keen to establish himself in the second tier and earn more caps for Jamaica, for whom he has made four appearances.
Impact on West Brom
West Brom will receive a significant fee for a player who was never likely to return to Brighton permanently. The Baggies are now in the market for a replacement winger as they aim to build on last season’s performance. Corberan said: 'We thank Danny for his efforts and wish him well. We will look to strengthen our squad accordingly.' The club has been linked with a move for Callum O’Hare of Coventry City, though no official bid has been made. The transfer funds from Imray’s sale are expected to be reinvested before the August 30 deadline.
Looking Ahead
Stoke City fans will get their first glimpse of Imray during pre-season friendlies against Crewe Alexandra and Bolton Wanderers. The club has high hopes for the Jamaican international, who with his versatility to play across the front line could be a crucial asset in Stoke’s push for a top-half finish. Imray has already linked up with his new teammates at the training ground, undergoing medical checks and fitness tests. The deal also includes a sell-on clause for Brighton, with the Seagulls retaining a percentage of any future transfer fee.
Financial and Tactical Details
The £2 million fee represents good business for all parties. Brighton, who developed Imray from the age of 12, will receive a sell-on percentage. Stoke, meanwhile, acquire a player with proven Championship experience at a modest price. Imray is expected to wear the number 11 shirt and will be used primarily as a right winger in Schumacher’s 4-2-3-1 formation. The signing is the first of what Stoke hope will be several additions this summer, with a central defender and a striker also on the club's wish list.
West Brom, meanwhile, are actively seeking replacements. Corberan has identified a shortlist of wingers, including a potential loan deal for Oxford United’s James Henry. The club's recruitment team is working on multiple fronts to ensure the squad is ready for the start of the season. Imray’s departure leaves a gap in experience, but the Baggies have young talents like Tom Fellows ready to step up.
Fan and Media Reaction
Stoke fans have reacted positively on social media, with many praising the club's swift action in securing a player they had been linked with since May. West Brom supporters, while disappointed to lose a fan favorite, understand the financial logic. Local media in the Midlands have highlighted the transfer as one of the early bargains of the summer window. The move also strengthens Stoke's Jamaican contingent, joining midfielder Daniel Johnson and defender Curtis Thompson in the squad.
In summary, Danny Imray's transfer to Stoke City is a move that benefits all parties. The player gets a permanent home, the clubs receive fair compensation, and fans have a new star to watch in the upcoming Championship season. With pre-season underway, Imray will aim to hit the ground running and help Stoke climb the table.
