Stoke chairman Peter Coates has admitted his club would have to take Michael Owen's injury history and cost into account before launching a serious bid to sign him.

Manager Tony Pulis confirmed earlier this week he would be interested in talking to the 29-year-old, who becomes a free agent next week after four seasons at Newcastle.

Owen managed just 79 appearances for the Magpies after suffering two serious injuries and a series of other niggling complaints, and his absences proved hugely costly for a club which paid £17million for his services and around £20million in wages.

He told Sky Sports News: "There is always the worry with Michael, because of recent years, how often is he going to play? They are no good to you if they are not playing, and it is more painful than ever if you are having to pay them a lot of wages.

"A factor with Michael is there is no transfer fee, obviously, and that would be attractive for everybody.

"But you have got to look at the other things."