Uh oh… this was the fear all along.
Preston have been pursuing the signature of Doncaster Rovers star Ben Whitman, and seemed to be making progress.
Adam Leventhal of The Athletic reported just days ago that Whiteman was set for a move for Deepdale despite interest from elsewhere.
There is a belief that Whiteman wants to stay living in Manchester, as he current commutes to Doncaster – and joining Preston would certainly allow him to do that.
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Donny boss Darren Moore confirmed on Thursday that Preston had failed with a move for Whiteman, but he was then left out against Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, with his ‘head turned’ by a potential move to Deepdale.
Yet with no deal done, there was always a chance that other Championship clubs could swoop in and hijack North End’s move – which could now happen.
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The Athletic report that Nottingham Forest want Whiteman, whilst Derby County have registered a strong interest in signing him.
Barnsley are also keen, meaning Preston now face a late battle to bring Whiteman to Deepdale, and having huge clubs like Forest and Derby suddenly in the race is a major threat.
Let’s hope that Whiteman still wants to stay close to the North West, or else Preston could end up missing out on the 24-year-old at the 11th hour.