Ben Wilmot has already packed a great deal into his footballing career.

Wilmot, who became the Potters’ first signing of the 2021 summer transfer window, has already represented four clubs – including a spell in Italian football.

That came not long after he had joined Watford from Stevenage as he linked-up with Serie A side Udinese on a six-month loan, making five appearances in the process.

The talented central defender, who can also operate as a holding midfielder, was on the move again after returning to the UK as he joined Swansea City on a season-long loan for the 2019/20 campaign.

Wilmot certainly made an impact, writing his name in Swans folklore by scoring the only goal of their game against their arch South Wales rivals Cardiff City in October 2019 (one of two he scored in 23 league and cup appearances).

In 2020/21 he made 27 appearances for Watford as they secured promotion back to the Premier League and lined up against the Potters twice.

Wilmot was a member of the England Under-21 squad for the European Championships earlier in 2021.

He started his career as an academy scholar at his hometown club Stevenage, progressing through the ranks to break onto the first team scene in 2018.

Wilmot quickly attracted attention from Premier League clubs and in May of that year he joined Watford for an undisclosed fee on a five-year contract.