Jonathan Walters believes new Stoke signing Bosun Lawal can play at the top level

Former Republic of Ireland striker Jonathan Walters believes that Bosun Lawal has the potential to play at the top level following his move from Scotland to the English Championship.

The Ireland Under-21 international's move to Stoke City from Celtic on a four-year deal was confirmed on Sunday, having spent last season on loan at Fleetwood Town.

Walters is the current sporting director at the English club and expects Stoke fans to see the quality of the versatile midfielder and defender when Lawal recovers from a short-term injury.

"Bosun is a player who I've followed closely for a number of years," Walters told the club website.

"After competing with several top clubs, we are proud to have secured his signature.

"Our ambitions are perfectly aligned, and we believe he possesses all the attributes to reach the very top of the game. He is not only a fantastic addition to our squad but also a key part of our long-term vision for the club.

"We’re confident that his talent and drive will make a significant impact as we look to achieve our goals together."

Lawal, who was called up to the senior Ireland squad during the summer, said former Ireland and Stoke midfielder Glenn Whelan helped convince him to move to the Potters, while he also spoke to his former Fleetwood coach, Charlie Adams.

"The club is massive, it didn’t need selling to me, but when I spoke to Glenn Whelan and Charlie Adam, who coached me for Ireland and Fleetwood, what they said about Stoke City really excites me for my journey here," said the former St Kevin's Boys player.

"The gaffer and Jon are full of ambition and that really attracted me, they want to take the club back to the highest level.

"I witnessed the electric atmosphere in the stadium first-hand on Saturday,