Preston North End are reportedly considering a move for former Rangers winger Ryan Kent, who recently left Turkish club Fenerbahce and is now a free agent.
Kent, 28, departed the Istanbul-based team by mutual consent, ending his stay just months after signing a four-year deal.
Heckingbottom Seeks Familiar Face for January Reinforcement
Kent’s potential arrival at Deepdale is believed to be driven by Preston boss Paul Heckingbottom, who previously coached him during a loan stint at Barnsley in 2016. Then a promising Liverpool academy product, Kent joined Barnsley on loan, scoring six goals in 47 appearances under Heckingbottom’s guidance. According to journalist Alan Nixon, the Preston manager is now keen to reunite with the winger to add experience and versatility to his squad.
Heckingbottom only signed one player—Josh Bowler, on loan from Nottingham Forest—after taking over as Preston’s manager in August. The manager’s preferred use of wing-backs has left fewer opportunities for traditional wingers, but a recent interview suggests Heckingbottom might adjust his system.
“It’s difficult. Looking at that, they’ve got their style of play and formation and they are bringing on wingers for wingers. We are playing that shape and we’ve not got the like-for-like replacements. That’s no disrespect to the boys on the bench… the shape was working and we were on top, but we didn’t have the front three if you like to come on and replace. Hopefully, we will have soon enough,” Heckingbottom explained to the Lancashire Post after a recent match against Sunderland.
While Kent’s recent spell in Turkey might not have panned out as anticipated, his experience at Rangers showcases his potential value. During his time at the Glasgow club, he secured the Scottish Premiership title, lifted the Scottish Cup, and reached the UEFA Europa League final in 2022. A seasoned winger with experience across various leagues, Kent’s addition could offer Preston a strategic boost for the season’s second half.
Kent’s links to Heckingbottom’s previous team, Sheffield United, add an intriguing layer. Before Kent’s move to Fenerbahce, rumours had circulated that Heckingbottom was interested in bringing him to Sheffield. With the Blades no longer in the picture, Preston now appears the most likely destination for Kent’s potential return to English football.
Writer’s View
Kent’s history with Heckingbottom and his ability to adapt across leagues make him a tantalising option for Preston. If Heckingbottom is indeed looking to expand his tactical options, a player with Kent’s experience and versatility might provide the creative spark Preston has been lacking in wide areas this season.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
