Adam Reach was a standout player when Preston North End returned for their first season back in the Championship in 2015-16.
Brought in on loan from Middlesbrough by Simon Grayson, Reach played in numerous positions; on the left hand side in midfield and defence as well as just behind the striker.
He made 36 appearances for The Lilywhites scoring four goals in the process. His power, technical skills and versatility made him a valuable asset at just 23 at the end of that season.
His loan move was so impressive that many fans wanted him to return to Deepdale on a permanent basis. His value was way out of Preston’s budget however, and Sheffield Wednesday swooped for him for a fee thought to be around £5 million.
Ironically his first goal for the club came with a last minute stunner against North End at Deepdale on 31st December 2016.
He went on to help The Owls into the play-offs that season, and won the club’s Player of the Year award the season after.
However after five years at Hillsborough and following the club’s relegation to League One, Reach has moved on.
West Bromwich Albion have secured his services on a free transfer, and he joins The Baggies on a three-year deal.
He will link up with Callum Robinson as the club look to bounce back to the top flight once again, following last season’s relegation.
This move also means Reach has turned down a move to Blackburn Rovers, who had wanted to sign him on a free transfer.
Seeing Reach turn out for Rovers would have been frustrating, but he has now chosen the Midlands over a return to Lancashire.