Preston North End are interested in swoop for free agent Jack Cork, following his release from Burnley, according to Football Insider.
The veteran midfielder began his career at the Chelsea Academy where he would go on over five loans before a move to Southampton. He would impress in his tenure for the Saints as he appeared over 100 times.
After this a move to Swansea City would be made, before a seven-year tenure at the Clarets. In this time, he would play a prominent role in Sean Dyche’s success as they reached the Europa League. His time would eventually come to an end after a disappointing 2023/24 season, which resulted in relegation from the Premier League.
The midfielder is valued at £675k on Transfermarkt. As a result of his vast experience and all round attributes, the 35-year-old is a target Preston
Football Insider have reported that the 35-year-old is being eyed by the Lilywhites. This is seen as a necessary replacement following the departure of club captain Alan Browne and Lewis Leigh. After the Lancashire based saw seen a huge drop in form towards the end of last season, more leaders could be crucial in ensuring play-offs.
Speaking earlier this year, manager Ryan Lowe said:
“The lads need guidance; we’ve got some fantastic leaders in there, but I just want a few more – so they can manage it themselves. We have not got a leadership group as such, but I want one.
“We will recruit stronger and that’s down to me, to get players who can compete with each other. We have got a good, core group of players. Some will move on and some will stay, but I think we need to go that one step further next season – and add one or two more seniors and leaders, who can help the group when you do go through bad spells.”
Writer’s View
The Lancashire-based side have seen much improvement in the past few years, but consistency has been an issue. A player with Cork’s attributes could be crucial for Ryan Lowe’s side next season.
However, the fight for play-offs is tipped to be highly competitive with the likes of Coventry City, Sunderland and Hull City likely to improve. Therefore some pundits would argue this expectation is slightly unrealistic. With a key figure like Alan Browne leaving, this may be a campaign that is used to consolidate their position before pushing for a top six finish the following year.
