It’s been quiet for a while at Preston in terms of signings, but one more appears to be drawing closer.
With only Patrick Bauer and David Nugent on board, it’s been apparent for some time that more reinforcements were needed.
A replacement for Callum Robinson has been a priority, having sold him to Sheffield United last month. Remarkably, his successor may be a player with very similar roots.
We understand that Aston Villa winger Andre Green is the man North End want, a season-long loan is in the pipeline.
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
Like Robinson, Green has started out with Villa. The 21-year-old, like Robinson is a right-footed left winger who can take on a man with a turn of pace and dribbling ability.
MORE PRESTON STORIES
Last season, Green scored once in 22 games for Villa as they won promotion. He also scored five times in 12 outings on loan at Portsmouth, before being recalled by Villa.
Tipped for a bright future, Green finds himself down the pecking order at Villa Park. With Anwar El Ghazi signing permanently, and both Jota and Trezeguet joining too, Green is unlikely to play first-team football.
He’s now nearing a loan move to North End, following in Robinson’s footsteps. Robinson joined North End on loan three times before signing permanently in 2016, and we’ll hope that Green ends up having similar success.
It’s unclear whether Green would have a permanent option included in the loan. We’re guessing not, but it would be nice to have that kind of option just in case he becomes a star at Deepdale – just like Robinson did.
North End’s recruitment wouldn’t stop with Green, and it promises to be a busy few days. There’s just a week to go until the transfer deadline, and Preston are looking to really strengthen.
A goalkeeper, left back, midfielder and striker remain on the radar, meaning we may see as many as five new signings in the next seven days – providing all goes to plan for Alex Neil and co, who has been desperate for reinforcements.