Source: Team_Talk
Cole jets out as Stoke close in
West Ham striker Carlton Cole has flown out to Switzerland amid reports claiming he is close to a return to the Premier League with Stoke.[LNB] The 27-year-old joined fellow England internationals Rob Green and Scott Parker as part of the Hammers' 26-man squad that travelled to Switzerland on Friday for a six-day training camp.[LNB]Despite joining Sam Allardyce's men at their base near Bern, reports have emerged suggesting Stoke manager Tony Pulis is set to make Cole his first summer signing in a £4.5million deal, which could eventually rise to £6million depending on whether several clauses are triggered.[LNB]The former Chelsea striker was reportedly subject of a £3million bid from the Potters last weekend and could now become the next high-profile departure from the relegated Hammers after fellow frontman Demba Ba joined Newcastle.[LNB]QPR were also thought to be monitoring Cole's availability but he could now be set for a move to the Britannia Stadium, which may end Pulis' pursuit of Birmingham forward Cameron Jerome.
