Stockport County are closing in on a deal to sign highly rated Stoke City forward Nathan Lowe on loan, with the 19-year-old poised for another step up after a prolific League Two campaign last season.
Sources have told EFL Deal Zone that County are in advanced negotiations with Stoke, who are set to loan out the teenage striker in search of regular game time. League One rivals Huddersfield Town have also shown interest, but it’s Stockport who look set to win the race.
Lowe burst onto the scene last season during a brilliant loan spell at Walsall, where he registered 18 goal contributions in all competitions — including 15 goals and 5 assists in just 22 League Two appearances. His form earned him a recall to Stoke City in January, where he made 10 Championship appearances but found opportunities more limited, scoring once.
A fresh loan to League One now appears likely, with Lowe expected to play a key role in Dave Challinor’s promotion-chasing Stockport side.
A statement move for County
Stockport have already made ambitious moves in the market this summer — including the recent arrival of former Peterborough defender Tayo Edun — and their interest in both Lowe and Manchester United winger Ethan Williams reflects a clear intent to push for the Championship.
Nathan Lowe would arrive with a strong pedigree after dominating League Two defences last season with a clinical edge and intelligent movement. Standing at 6’2”, the left-footed striker combines physical presence with quick feet and excellent finishing, making him an ideal successor to Louie Barry — whose 15 goals in 23 games helped power County’s promotion charge before being recalled by Aston Villa in January.
Lowe could be the missing piece up top, providing Stockport with a new focal point ahead of Sunday’s League One opener against Bolton Wanderers.
What they’re saying
With Stoke’s front line strengthened this summer and limited minutes expected for Lowe in the Championship, Mark Robins’ side see a loan move as the ideal path for his development.
Meanwhile, the fact that Huddersfield were also keen is viewed as a strong endorsement of the player’s quality — particularly after the Terriers landed experienced striker Alfie May.
Key FotMob Stats – 2024/25 (Walsall & Stoke City)
League Two (Walsall)
- 22 appearances
- 15 goals
- 5 assists
- 1,768 minutes played
- Average match rating: 7.42
- Percentile rank among League Two forwards:• 97th for goals scored• 92nd for xG per 90• 89th for shot accuracy
Championship (Stoke City)
- 10 appearances
- 1 goal
- 423 minutes played
- Average match rating: 6.41
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