Preston North End are reportedly targeting Jahn Regensburg left-back Bryan Hein in the January transfer window.
According to Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg, the Championship side are keen to bring the 23-year-old to England before the deadline.
Hein’s Contract Situation
Hein is out of contract at the end of the season and could leave Regensburg as a free agent. The Hamburg-born full-back has made 16 appearances this term, including 14 in the 2. Bundesliga, contributing two assists. Hein joined Jahn Regensburg in 2023 and has since become a key player, appearing 50 times for the club and helping them secure promotion from the 3. Liga last year.
🚨Preston North End and St. Truiden are exploring a deal to sign Bryan Hein as per @SkySport_Ben.
The 23-year-old left-back from second-division club Jahn Regensburg is under contract until 2025.@SkySportDE 🇩🇪 pic.twitter.com/ngRDuF15J3
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) January 18, 2025
With Regensburg currently sitting bottom of the 2. Bundesliga table, three points adrift of safety, Hein may see a move to Preston as an opportunity to step away from a relegation battle and test himself in English football.
Competition for Hein’s Signature
Preston North End are not alone in their pursuit of the promising left-back, with Belgian side Sint-Truiden also reportedly interested. However, the Lilywhites may be able to offer a compelling proposition as they look to strengthen their squad for the second half of the Championship season. Paul Heckingbottom’s side are currently 16th in the table, five points above the relegation zone after their recent goalless draw against Luton Town.
Hein’s versatility and attacking prowess could add much-needed depth to Preston’s left flank. At 23, he is still developing and could become a valuable long-term asset for the club.
A Promising Career
Hein began his football journey at USC Paloma Hamburg before joining Hamburg’s academy in 2009. He worked his way through the youth ranks but never managed to break into the senior team, instead featuring 72 times for their B side. His move to Jahn Regensburg provided the platform to establish himself as a regular in professional football, and his performances have now caught the attention of clubs outside Germany.
Writer’s View
A move for Bryan Hein could be a smart piece of business for Preston North End. With his contract expiring, the left-back represents a potentially low-cost option with the ability to make an immediate impact. His experience in helping Regensburg achieve promotion and his regular game time in Germany’s second tier suggest he has the qualities needed to adapt to the Championship. For Hein, a switch to Preston would provide an opportunity to test himself in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues and further his development.
