A disastrous campaign last year saw Stoke finish in their lowest league position since Tony Pulis' newly promoted side narrowly avoided relegation in 2003, despite a sizeable investment in the squad.
There's no use pretending the Potters can afford their wage bill long term under the strict Championship FFP restrictions so there's not a lot of money to spend for the new boss.
Nathan Jones also looks determined to push his diamond formation this season and there are a number of key positions Stoke are lacking in to make that formation work.
Here are seven stars who could be available for the right price to improve Stoke's prospects:
What He Brings: In short a replacement for the outbound Jack Butland.