Walsall FC clinch deal to bring back Florent Cuvelier

Walsall FC this afternoon clinched a deal to bring Stoke starlet Florent Cuvelier back to the Banks's.

The Saddlers have signed the midfielder on loan until January as boss Dean Smith's transfer plans gather pace.

Premier League Stoke were impressed with the progress the 19-year-old made during last season's loan spell at Walsall and wanted him to return to the Saddlers.

The Belgian under-19 international made 18 appearances for Walsall, scoring four times, after signing in January.

"This signing is a big boost for us," said Smith. "He first came here at a time when we needed a bit of quality and he certainly brought that to the team.

"He did extremely well for us and it's been an ongoing process since the end of the season where we've kept in touch with both Flo and Stoke City.

"It's a big compliment that Stoke believe that this is a good place for one of their up-and-coming talents to come and further his career in the game.

"His return has given everyone a real lift and I'm sure. The deal is initially for six months with a view to extending it further."

Cuvelier scored the goal, in a 1-1 draw against Huddersfield, which secured Walsall's League One survival in April.