Given close to Stoke move as Hull dismiss Brady offer as ‘embarrassing’

Shay Given is close to sealing a move to Stoke City as Aston Villa agree to release him from his contract a year early.

The Republic of Ireland international looked set to rejoin Middlesbrough, where he spent three months on loan during the 2013/14 season, but the opportunity to remain in the Premier League has seen him opt to sign for Mark Hughes’ side.

It is understood that the Donegal native has undergone a medical at the Potters and a deal is close to completion as Aston Villa secured a replacement for Given, signing goalkeeper Mark Bunn on a free transfer following his release from Norwich City.