Stoke City defender David Okagbue is set to sign for League Two side Walsall this afternoon, subject to a medical according to journalist Pete O’Rourke from Football Insider.

The 19-year-old spent part of last season in the National League and is now set to join the Saddlers as they strive to improve results after a frustrating start to the 2023/24 League Two campaign.

Who is David Okegbue?

The Irishman joined Stoke City’s U18s in 2020 and very quickly rose through the ranks with Alex Neil’s side. Last year, Okegbue had two loan spells in the Non-League scene beginning with Chester FC before moving onto Oldham Athletic.

With David Unsworth’s side, Okegbue made ten appearances and grabbed his first professional goal in a 2-2 draw against Scunthorpe United.

Requires improvement

Stoke City have taken six points from their first four league games, but have also been involved with an extremely busy summer window with several new additions and some very impressive performances.

Meanwhile, Walsall have taken just five points from their first five games but have only won once. This win came against a strong Stockport County side which proves that the quality is there but several disappointing errors are still being made and the signing of Okegbue should help to prevent these mistakes from occurring.

What’s been said?

There has been no comment from Pete O’Rourke about whether this is a loan or permanent deal, but the defender will have to complete a medical before he signs for the League Two side.

Walsall have had a successful summer, bringing back Danny Johnson to the side and have shown early promise. However, basic errors are costing them points early doors.

If these mistakes can be rectified, Walsall should recover and move back towards the play-off places and hopefully, the addition of Okegbue will help to push the Saddlers.