Jack Butland’s arrival at Stoke could pave the way for Asmir Begovic’s Chelsea exit

Asmir Begovic could be on his way out of the Britannia Stadium in the summer (Picture: Getty)

Stoke's January signing of young England goalkeeper Jack Butland could pave the way for current no.1 Asmir Begovic to depart the Britannia Stadium in the summer.

The Bosnian international has taken over from Thomas Sorensen as Stoke's first choice stopper in recent seasons and his fine form has attracted attentions of other clubs, not least Chelsea who are on the lookout for a long-term replacement for 30-year-old Petr Cech.

In August 2010, Begovic refused to play in a League Cup game for the Potters as he was trying to engineer a move to Stamford Bridge, but the deal collapsed and Begovic has remained at the Britannia ever since.

Jack Butland decided to join Stoke instead of Chelsea on transfer deadline day (Picture: Getty)

But rumours were abound again in January that the 25-year-old could be on his way to west London – while Manchester United also showed interest – especially after Butland refused to hold talks with Chelsea officials over a proposed move on transfer deadline day, instead favouring his first-team opportunities under Tony Pulis at Stoke.

And should the 19-year-old demonstrate his Premier League credentials before the end of the season with more impressive displays while back on loan at Birmingham, it could open the door for Begovic to finally get his move to a top four side.

~Metro » Football | Metro UK~