Stoke target Michael Uchebo claim VVV-Venlo

Michael Uchebo is apparently a January transfer target for Stoke (GETTY IMAGES)

VVV-Venlo striker Michael Uchebo is being targeted by Stoke, according to the Eredivisie club.

VVV sporting director Mario Captein claims the 21-year-old will go to England for talks in the next fortnight - if the requisite paperwork can be arranged.

He told Voetbal International: "They want to talk to Michael. You should see it as a sort of interview.

"You always want to talk to a player before you agree to sign them. It shows at least that Stoke's interest is very serious."

As for when he will visit the Potteries, Captein added: "Next week there are no matches in the Eredivisie (due to the Euro 2012 play-offs) so that would be a good time.

Nigeria Under-20 international Uchebo, who at 6ft 5in would fit in with Stoke's direct style, joined VVV in 2010 from Enugu Rangers in his homeland. He is out of contract next summer.

PA