Preston winger Tom Barkhuizen looks likely to leave the club this summer – and a shock move to Union Saint-Gilloise could be on the cards.
Barkhuizen’s North End contract expires at the end of the season and it doesn’t look like a new deal will be thrashed out.
After more than five years at Preston, Barkhuizen appears set for a move away on a free transfer.
In truth, Barkhuizen has just been incredibly unfortunate at the worst possible time.
Barkhuizen has been so solid and dependable for most of his time at Preston but injuries have just kept coming this term.
The 28-year-old has only managed 120 minutes of action under Ryan Lowe and has been out injured since the 1-0 defeat to Swansea in January.
Lowe wants a robust squad that can play regularly next season, and Barkhuizen being unable to play for nearly three months means he could be on his way.
Some have wondered just where Barkhuizen will be heading this summer if Preston do let him go – and a surprise suitor has emerged.
TEAMtalk claim that Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise are interesting in signing Barkhuizen on a free transfer this summer.
Union Saint-Gilloise are owned by Brighton and Hove Albion owner Tony Bloom and have already brought in three English players.
Christian Burgess, Matthew Sorinola and Marcel Lewis have all joined Union Saint-Gilloise in recent times as they embark on a stunning journey.
After winning promotion from Belgium’s second division last season, Union Saint-Gilloise now lead the Belgian top flight and are on course for a title win.
Barkhuizen is now thought to be their latest target, sensing a bargain as the winger nears the end of his Preston deal.
Reading star Andy Rinomhota and Sunderland’s Patrick Roberts are also on the radar with more English raids on the cards.
Sporting director Chris O’Loughlin has history in English football with Charlton Athletic and seems to be leading the recruitment drive.
If Union Saint-Gilloise can win the league – which requires going through a playoff stage – then they will be straight into the Champions League group stage.
That will be very appealing to Barkhuizen, and few Preston fans would begrudge him making such a huge move after more than 200 North End appearance.