Stoke City striker Milan Smit has joined German second-tier side Darmstadt on a season-long loan.
The Dutch forward originally signed for Stoke from Go Ahead Eagles on an initial loan arrangement in January. He made 13 league appearances for the Potters, starting six times.
Smit scored one goal for Stoke — in their 3-3 home draw against Ipswich in March. After that match, he spoke of his relief at breaking his scoring drought and the difficulties of adjusting to Championship football.
Smit move allows regular football
Jonathan Walters, Stoke's sporting director, said the loan deal would give Smit consistent game time. "We all know Milan's opportunities have been limited and, following conversations with him and his representatives, we agreed this move allows him to play regularly in a competitive division," Walters said.
Wilmot commits long-term
Stoke have also confirmed that defender Ben Wilmot has signed a new three-year contract. The 26-year-old has been with the club since the start of the 2021-22 season and has made 188 appearances.
Wilmot's new deal runs until the summer of 2029, with the option for an additional 12 months should the club choose to trigger it.
Walters said Wilmot's commitment reflects the defender's desire to succeed at Stoke. "It is clear from speaking to Ben and from seeing his drive and attitude that he is desperate to be successful at Stoke City," Walters said. "Ben's one of the longer-serving players in the team and, as new players come in and the squad continues to develop, that continuity is important."
