The 32-year-old is a free agent after being released by Manchester United this summer, although his wage demands could make it difficult for Stoke to do a deal.
He is a "luxury player" who you cannot bank on to play more than two games on the trot.
It could work at Old Trafford, where he was a player for the odd fixture, but do Stoke seriously need the hassle?
Tony Pulis: "Michael hasn't gone anywhere and it's still a possibility.
"There's still stuff happening and going on. Whether we can do a deal or not is another matter.
"I've always said he's a good player and someone I think people in the club would like to have around.
"He's a great professional as well and Crouchy has shown what great professionals can do for the football club."