Stoke City are reportedly attempting to move ahead of Lincoln City and Rangers in the race to sign Dundee defender Luke Graham, as reported by Alan Nixon.

The 22-year-old has been the subject of growing attention after an impressive season in Scotland, and the latest reports suggest Stoke are prepared to push hard for his signature. Graham has previously been linked with a move to Lincoln, while Rangers have also been trying to put together a deal as they look to strengthen their defensive options.

However, Stoke’s involvement could make the situation more difficult for the other clubs involved. The Potters are said to be willing to go as high as £1.5 million for the Dundee defender, with wages also likely to be a key part of the race.

Stoke City Looking To Move Ahead In Transfer Race

Lincoln have been linked with Graham for several months, with reports earlier in the year suggesting the club would be interested if promotion to the Championship was secured. That has now happened, and it has naturally altered the type of market the Imps can operate in this summer.

Even so, Stoke represent serious competition. They are already established at Championship level and have the financial power to make a stronger offer, both in terms of transfer fee and personal terms. That does not necessarily end Lincoln’s interest, but it does show the challenge facing the newly promoted side as they try to compete in a more aggressive market.

Rangers add another layer to the story. A move to Ibrox would carry obvious appeal, particularly for a young Scottish defender who has already started to build a strong reputation north of the border. Graham is understood to be open to a move to England, but Rangers’ presence ensures this is not simply a Championship tug-of-war.

Why Graham Is Attracting Interest

Graham has come through the Dundee system and has taken a patient route into senior football, including loan spells away from the club before establishing himself more firmly at first-team level. He has also represented Scotland at Under-21 level, adding to the sense that he is a player with a strong development curve rather than a short-term punt.

Dundee are unlikely to let him go cheaply, particularly given the number of clubs reportedly monitoring the situation. Portsmouth have also previously been credited with interest, while other Championship sides have been mentioned in recent weeks. That level of attention means Dundee can afford to hold firm unless a club meets their valuation.

Transfer Race Could Move Quickly

From a footballing perspective, Graham looks exactly the type of defender clubs should be trying to sign before his price climbs further.

The key issue may now be how quickly Stoke decide to act. If they are prepared to meet Dundee’s demands and offer stronger wages than their rivals, they could quickly become the most likely destination. Lincoln may still have a pathway to offer, while Rangers have the pull of one of Scotland’s biggest clubs, but Stoke appear to be making a serious push.

Graham would be a statement addition for any Championship club looking to build defensively, and his next move will be watched closely. Stoke may have the financial edge, Rangers have the status, and Lincoln have a clear development pitch after promotion.