Stoke have signed Fulham and DR Congo defender Gabriel Zakuani on loan until the end of the season.

The 20-year-old moved to Craven Cottage for £1.5million last summer from Leyton Orient but has yet to make a Premiership appearance. So far he has been restricted to just two cup appearances for the Cottagers.

He is Tony Pulis’ eighth signing of the transfer window and his arrival could pave the way for captain Michael Duberry to complete his move to Reading.