Tony Pulis has admitted that Stoke are on the verge of agreeing a deal for Portmore United's Rudolph Austin.

The Jamaica international is currently waiting on a work permit, but strengthened his case after appearing in back-to-back World Cup qualifiers against the Bahamas last week.

Pulis confirmed Stoke are doing all they can to push the deal through, with a six-figure transfer fee expected to be involved.

"It's a staggered deal if we do it," he told the Sentinel.

"It is all based around how well he does over here. As everyone knows, we've had him over a few times to look at him in training and he's looked a decent prospect.

"He's still a young lad and will obviously have to prove himself, but we think he might be worth the chance.

"He's a strong, quick and aggressive type with two good feet, and he can also play in one of two positions."

Austin would have arrived at the Britannia Stadium last season, along with compatriot Demar Phillips, had injuries not prevented him making the requisite number of international appearances.

However, with the move now nearing completion, Pulis is confident that the presence of countrymen Phillips and Ricardo Fuller will help the youngster to settle once he makes his belated arrival in England.

"That's a factor in our favour," he said.

"With Ric and Demar over here, it's been a good point of contact and will help him settle in a foreign land."