Wilkinson, 21, already has decent experience, playing for Telford last season and Partick Thistle earlier this season.
Town manager Gary Peters told ShrewsWeb: "We've got our fingers crossed that if he does well for us, then there's the possibility we could loan him for the whole of next season."
The player's potential has been highlighted by Stoke's desire to extend his contract for another year.
Wilkinson, who is a right-back but can play in the centre, comes in following the recent sale of Darren Moss to Crewe.