Ghana midfielder Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has returned to Udinese to join their pre-season preparations despite heightened reports of his imminent departure.

The 24-year-old took part in his first summer pre-season training with Zebrette on Thursday having arrived in Italy the night before.

Badu had been in his native Ghana on holidays.

He however during this period, made a quick return trip to the UK to hold talks with Stoke City over a move.

The 2009 U20 World Cup is expected to join the English club but has insisted no deal is in place.

He has now joined his team for pre-season training.