Preston linked with Joe Hart deal…no, really

Well, it’s a day for goalkeeping news at Preston. Here we are again discussing shot stoppers.

Firstly, Chris Maxwell left the club earlier today, joining Charlton Athletic on loan until the end of the season.

North End now need a goalkeeper to replace the Welshman, and Middlesbrough’s Connor Ripley appears to be a top target.

Now though, The Sun have released a shock report tonight naming another target for the Lilywhites.

Alan Nixon claims that North End are interested in taking Burnley goalkeeper Joe Hart on loan in what would be a surprise deal.

Hart, 31, only joined Burnley from Manchester City last summer, but is already being touted for an exit.

The former England international was a regular for much of this season, but has now lost his spot in the Burnley side to Tom Heaton.

With Nick Pope ramping up his recovery from injury, Hart could be third choice goalkeeper at Turf Moor; not something he would have dreamed of.

North End may therefore have at least asked the Clarets about a deal, but I think we would all be shocked if this came off.

Firstly, Hart’s wages, even with a significant contribution from Burnley, would surely be beyond our pay structure.

Add in that Hart would surely have bigger name suitors than Preston, and it’s hard to picture him turning out at Deepdale regularly.

Geographically speaking, it would be beneficial if Hart simply wants to play games before returning to Burnley.

Right now though, this one is hard to believe. Ripley is surely more realistic, but you can never say never in football…