By J Bateman
January 16 2003

Stoke have entered the race to sign Arsenal's Steve Sidwell , but they face stiff competition from Reading and Arsenal. Stoke are the next club to take a look at Steve Sidwell , the youngster is the most popular man on the planet at present with a rush of clubs wanting his signature.

Sidwell has had talks with officials at Brittania and they are waiting on the players decision soon , but Stoke are not confident about getting there man , Sidwell has been on loan at Brighton all season and with Reading in reach of London he may opt for a move to one of those two clubs.

City's director of football John Rudge speaking to the official site said "We are very keen to get him because he is a very bright young player with a lot of potential.

"We brought him here and had a good chat and he saw the set-up but he was always going to go away and think about the move and talk to other clubs.Rudge also stated

Sidwell has hit 5 goals in his stay at the Withdean and all at Brighton are hoping they can capture him first , but the lure of Readings position in the league might be the key to get Sidwell to the Madjeski.