Transfer wrap: Stoke´s Woodgate gamble, Inler to Napoli

In Monday’s transfer news, Stoke City threw Jonathan Woodgate a lifeline and Gokhan Inler switched from Udinese to Napoli.

Woodgate, whose injury-blighted time at Tottenham came to an end last month, has signed a one-year deal at the Potters on a free transfer.

The former England international is reportedly on a pay-as-you-play deal after making just a handful of appearances for Spurs in the past two years due to a long-term groin injury.

Stoke manager Tony Pulis said he believed the 31-year-old had a role to play at Britannia Stadium despite his lack of first-team football in recent seasons.

“The lad is a top-class player and it’s been well documented that he has had his injury troubles, but we believe that if his fitness is managed properly, he will play games for us,” Pulis said.

“We know that other (English) Premier League clubs were keen on signing Jonathan, so we are delighted he has chosen us.”

“It’s a chance we are taking, but one we were keen to take because of the stature and quality of the player.”

In Italy, Switzerland international Inler has wrapped up his move from Udinese to Serie A rivals Napoli.

Udinese will reportedly receive a 12-million-euro fee for Inler, whose departure could open the door for Cristian Zapata and Alexis Sanchez to force their way out of the Stadio Friuli.

“I’m excited, very excited. And I’m so very happy. I can’t wait to get to know Mr (Walter) Mazzarri, the staff and my new team-mates, so many great stars who give their all every day,” Inler wrote on his official website.

“And so my promise is this: I will give everything for the shirt of Napoli, in every training session and every game.”

Meanwhile, Australia international Mile Jedinak has signed to Crystal Palace on a free transfer, having been brought to the club’s attention by former Sydney FC coach Tony Popovic.

The 26-year-old midfielder has penned a three-year deal with the Championship side.

“I am delighted to be joining Crystal Palace at this stage in my career,” Jedinak told Palace’s official website.

“Playing in the UK has always been an ambition of mine and I am totally determined to make my time here an absolute success.”