Preston are already casting an eye towards the January transfer window having taken former Barnsley defender Bambo Diaby on trial.
The January window is just a few weeks away and new boss Ryan Lowe will be keen on additions.
A left wing back is a must, and a new striker to partner Emil Riis in attack should be on the radar too.
The first player Preston have targeted though is defender Diaby, who has joined Preston on trial.
Diaby has been suspended for more than a year having been found guilty of doping during his time with Barnsley.
The Tykes ripped up Diaby’s contract, but his ban comes to an end in mid-January – and Preston are positioning themselves early.
Lancs Live understand that Diaby has impressed on trial at Preston, boosting his chances of a full-time stay.
This move would be a gamble – but it could be one worth taking for North End.
Diaby hasn’t played since the 11th of January 2020. That’s almost two years out of the game, so you can understand some rustiness.
Diaby’s profile is different to what Preston have though; a young, powerful centre back with impressive pace.
Formerly of Lokeren in Belgium, Diaby also isn’t afraid to carry the ball out of defence – potentially vital under Lowe.
Diaby didn’t pull up any trees at Barnsley, seeming a little raw and in need of coaching.
That’s a gamble in itself, but Diaby would be absolutely free. How many defenders with his natural ability come available for nothing?
You have to factor in Preston’s defensive situation too. Patrick Bauer, Paul Huntington and Andrew Hughes are all out of contract next summer.
Sepp van den Berg will be returning to Liverpool too, meaning Preston could be four central defenders down come next season.
Preparing early with a move for Diaby would allow him time to find some match sharpness before potentially featuring in the Championship again.
The doping ban seemed to be a freak incident and not one Preston should worry about; higenamine was found in Diaby’s system but he has always maintained his innocence.
Let’s say it happens again; what have Preston lost? It’s a calculated punt on a free transfer with the potential to become a regular with some coaching up.
If that happens, Preston could have a real asset on their hands. Diaby isn’t a sure thing by any stretch, but the move is absolutely worth the gamble.