Preston are set to complete their first signing of the January transfer window with a move for Walsall winger Josh Ginnelly.
Rumours of a move for Ginnelly started on Saturday afternoon, with HITC Sport reporting that a deal for the wide man was close.
Walsall drew 1-1 away at Peterborough United in League One today, but Ginnelly wasn’t even in the squad as speculation mounted about his future with the Saddlers.
After the final whistle, boss Dean Keates told The Express and Star that Ginnelly was left out because a bid has been received for the winger ahead of January.
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
“Josh is not here today – there are one or two things going on,” said Keates. “We have had an offer for him and I had to make a decision that was best for the group. He hasn’t travelled with us.”
“A concrete offer has been tabled and I had to make a decision for the football club and I think that was justified today. What happens over the next two weeks with Josh will happen,” he added.
Ginelly, 21, has notched four goals and one assist this season, and has shown some pace and trickery out wide.
MORE PRESTON STORIES
Formerly of Burnley, Ginnelly’s deal with Walsall expires next summer, and North End are believed to be nearing a bargain swoop.
Interestingly, Ginnelly may already know some of the Preston squad.
He came through the Aston Villa ranks as a youngster, meaning he may well be familiar with Daniel Johnson, Graham Burke and Callum Robinson.
As a low-cost punt, there isn’t much for North End to lose here, and will provide depth in an area where Alex Neil is desperate for additions.