My opinion of the links with Stoke are, that it is all conjecture.
A journalist will have heard of a connection but doesn't know what.
The link is made with Michael O'Neil and Corry Evans, but nothing develops.
Rovers need a centre back, Harry Souter is available so this is the next name.
Due to Stokes bloated squad they are getting rid of players so Liam Lyndsay's name crops up. Even though they want their £2 million back and Rovers don't have any cash.
I am surprised that Rovers haven't been linked with Adam Davies, the goalkeeper. He went to Stoke and hasn't had any game time due to Jack Butland not being sold.
All guesswork.....In my opinion.