Stoke City Land Slovak Midfielder Tomas Rigo in €4m Deal
Big news has broken for Stoke City fans, as the club has confirmed the signing of Slovak midfielder Tomas Rigo from Banik Ostrava. The 23-year-old has put pen to paper on a four-year deal, with the fee believed to be around €4 million, although the exact figure hasn’t been disclosed. His arrival marks the 11th signing of what has already been a very busy transfer window for the Potters.
Rigo’s move was not straightforward. Banik Ostrava had been determined to keep hold of him during their push for a Europa Conference League group stage spot, and he only signed off with the Czech side by featuring in their playoff tie against Celje just a couple of nights ago. After that farewell match, he boarded a flight to England, underwent a medical on Friday, and the deal was finally completed on Saturday morning, just hours before Stoke’s Championship clash against West Bromwich Albion.
Although he won’t feature immediately, Rigo will be keeping a close eye on his new teammates today from the stands. Then, he’s set to head straight to Slovakia to link up with his national squad for World Cup qualifiers against Germany and Luxembourg. Stoke fans may have to wait until September 13, when the Potters face Birmingham City, for the chance to see him make his debut.
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Sporting director Jon Walters praised the acquisition, describing Rigo as a tenacious and technically talented midfielder whose standout displays at the Under-21 Euros attracted plenty of interest across Europe. Walters revealed that Stoke had identified him early through a mix of data analysis, video review, and live scouting, and that the club’s patience throughout the summer has now paid off.
Rigo himself has expressed his excitement, saying he is grateful to Stoke for their persistence in making the move happen. He highlighted the tradition and history of the club, admitting that he has already been watching Stoke’s matches and following the team from afar. He also noted how much encouragement he has received from fellow Slovak and new Stoke teammate Robert Bozenik , who spoke highly of life at the bet365 Stadium.
For Banik supporters, Rigo’s departure has been bittersweet. In his farewell speech after the Celje tie, he thanked fans for their passion and support over the past two years, pointing out that the club had nothing to be ashamed of after qualifying for Europe twice in that time.
Now, Stoke City fans are the ones welcoming him. With the transfer deadline just two days away, this capture feels like a significant statement. Rigo is not only a player with raw technical ability but also one who brings energy and determination—qualities that could be crucial as Stoke aim to push higher in the Championship this season.
All eyes will be on him once he pulls on the red and white shirt for the first time.
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