Real Betis and Granada battle for Stoke defender Marc Muniesa

Real Betis and Granada battle for Stoke defender Marc Muniesa

Marc Muniesa is the subject of interest from Real Betis and Granada on transfer deadline day.

The former Barcelona player, now of Stoke City, is closing on a return to Spanish football, but his departure from England is shrouded in uncertainty.

Miguel Torrecilla and Javier Torralbo, sporting directors of Betis and Granada respectively, have spent the last few days enquiring about the availability of the 24-year-old, either in the form of a permanent transfer or loan move.

Although the fact that the transfer window deadline is approaching, which makes a potential deal difficult to finalise in such a short period of time, Stoke coach Mark Hughes is also providing a stumbling block in negotiations.

The Welshman doesn't want to let go of any central defenders and has ensured Muniesa that he will occupy an important role in the squad throughout the season.

In any case, Betis and Granada haven't given up and still hope to convince Hughes to allow the departure of Muniesa.