STOKE CITY HAVE rejected a bid of £1.5 million from Premier League new boys Norwich for Ireland international Jon Walters.

The 31-year-old is out of contract at the Britannia Stadium next summer and doubts have been cast over his future after negotiations over a new deal stalled.

It’s believed Walters wants an improved three-year contract but Stoke are only willing to offer him a further two years.

Walters has been an ever present for Stoke over the last five seasons in the Premier League since joining from Norwich’s East Anglia rivals Ipswich in 2010.

The industrious forward started both of the Potters’ Premier League games this term and remains an important player for Mark Hughes.

But the arrival of Xherdan Shaqiri may reduce Walters’ opportunities and The Stoke Sentinel say the club may be willing to sell if Norwich come in with an improved offer.

The Canaries already have Irish internationals Wes Hoolahan and Robbie Brady on their books and manager Alex Neil is clearly keen to add a player of Walters’ top-flight experience to his squad.

Coincidentally, the two sides meet at Carrow Road tomorrow.

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