Preston North End midfielder Kian Taylor has confirmed he will leave the club at the end of the season following the expiry of his contract, drawing a line under more than a decade at Deepdale.
The 20-year-old took to social media to announce his departure after featuring in the club’s B Team during a goalless Central League draw against Bolton Wanderers earlier this week. Taylor, who first joined the club’s academy system as a child, spent 13 years with North End but made only one senior appearance.
The versatile midfielder was awarded a two-year professional deal after completing his scholarship, having impressed coaches with his composure and work ethic. His senior debut came in the Carabao Cup first-round tie against Salford City in the 2023/24 campaign, but injuries and competition limited his opportunities thereafter.
Taylor was involved in pre-season with the first team that summer and was named on the bench for the opening Championship fixture away at Bristol City. However, a serious arm injury curtailed his momentum early in his professional journey.
He later went out on loan to Stafford Rangers before spending part of the current season with National League side Altrincham, where he scored once in five appearances during a month-long spell.
After limited chances to break through at Deepdale, Taylor has now opted to move on in search of regular first-team football. He used his personal social media to thank those who supported him throughout his time with the Lancashire outfit.
“A good end to my 13 year stint at Preston. A big thank you to all the staff @pnefcacademy over the years. Looking forward to what the summer holds,” he posted on X.
Taylor’s departure comes as North End assess the futures of several other young players whose contracts are due to expire in June. While some are in talks over extensions, the midfielder is set to become a free agent and available to other clubs once the season concludes.
Writer’s View
Taylor’s story is a familiar one in modern football — a promising talent whose journey through the academy system culminates in a single senior appearance.
Though his time at Preston was punctuated by setbacks, the midfielder has shown glimpses of promise and versatility, having been deployed in both defensive and central midfield roles during his development.
His resilience through injury and loan spells deserves recognition, and with a full pre-season elsewhere, he could yet thrive. His exit is a reminder of the fine margins young players face as they seek to break into first-team football.
