According to Sky Sports News reporter Anthony Joseph, Celtic have made contact with Ben Pearson about a pre-contract agreement.
It’s claimed that Celtic want to take Pearson to Parkhead on a free transfer, and initial talks have been held for his signature.
Pearson is out of contract at the end of the season, and with January 1st upon us today, he can negotiate a pre-contract agreement with a non-English club.
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Celtic have wasted no time in making their move, and will hope that their swift approach wins them the race.
Pearson, 25, has been nothing short of sensational for North End. A £300,000 signing from Manchester United in January 2016, he has been a mainstay of the Preston side for more than four years now.
He has been the heartbeat of the Preston midfield, showing great control of possession and the willingness to get into the tackle – which has often seen him pick up a fair few red and yellow cards.
Celtic captain Scott Brown isn’t getting any younger, and the Bhoys may well feel that Pearson’s aggressive style in front of the back four makes him an ideal replacement.
If he signs a pre-contract agreement, Pearson would be leaving for free, but Celtic would still be able to negotiate a move this month – and their chase of Rangers in the title race may leave them considering such a move.