Preston North End Eye Key Contract Extensions as Talks Progress

Preston North End are moving swiftly to secure the futures of several key players as contract negotiations enter a crucial phase.

With a number of first-team regulars out of contract in 2025, the club is aiming to finalise extensions for three players in the coming weeks.

Preston Focuses on Securing Core Players

The Lilywhites began this season with several players entering the final year of their contracts. Among them, Will Keane has already extended his stay by one year following a late agreement in the summer transfer window. However, Preston still has eight key players facing contract expiration in 2025, along with several younger prospects, prompting the club to act quickly.

The most prominent names on the list include goalkeeper Freddie Woodman, defender Liam Lindsay, forward Emil Riis, and midfielder Ryan Ledson. Senior players like Robbie Brady, Andrew Hughes, and Patrick Bauer are also in the final year of their contracts, leaving Preston with important decisions to make regarding the squad’s future.

Heckingbottom Calm Amid Contract Talks

Despite the high number of players in need of new deals, Preston manager Paul Heckingbottom remains composed. The 47-year-old has taken time to evaluate his squad before beginning talks. It is understood that discussions have been positive, and the club is hopeful of concluding agreements with three players soon.

“We’re in ongoing discussions, and I’m pleased with how things are going. There’s been a lot of focus on getting the right deals in place, but we’re confident that key players want to stay and be part of what we’re building here,” said Heckingbottom.

Of the players whose contracts are under review, centre-back Jordan Storey has expressed a strong desire to remain at Deepdale, while emerging talent Kian Best is considering his options ahead of the expiration of his contract next summer. Best, a promising 19-year-old defender, had a breakout season last year and reportedly turned down an offer from Saudi Arabia in September.

Woodman, Storey, Lindsay, Hughes, and Riis have been vital to Preston’s campaign so far, while Brady has also impressed after being given more opportunities in recent games. Ryan Ledson and Duane Holmes, though primarily used as substitutes, have made notable contributions.Writer’s View

Preston North End’s efforts to secure these contract extensions are crucial to maintaining the team’s core stability. With several key players in the final stages of their contracts, Heckingbottom’s calm approach in negotiations could be pivotal for long-term squad development. If successful, these deals will keep the club competitive while laying the foundation for future success.

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