Preston North End face growing competition in the race to sign Charlton Athletic’s Thierry Small this summer.
The 20-year-old has attracted interest from at least five clubs as his contract nears expiry at The Valley. The Lilywhites are one of five clubs reportedly pursuing Charlton’s Small, as transfer speculation intensifies ahead of the summer window.
Standout Performer
Small, 20, has been a standout performer in League One this season and is set to enter the final weeks of his Charlton contract. According to Football League World, the Lilywhites are joined in the chase by Millwall, Oxford United, Derby County and Lancashire rivals Blackburn Rovers.
The versatile youngster, who came through the ranks at Everton before spells with Southampton and Port Vale, has impressed with his adaptability across both defensive and attacking roles on either flank. Since joining Charlton in February 2024, he has made 59 appearances, scoring three goals and providing seven assists. He contributed to eight goals in 45 matches during the 2024/25 season.
Charlton Athletic are currently preparing for the League One play-offs and will be entitled to compensation if Small departs after rejecting new terms.
Speculation Addressed
The speculation around his future was addressed by Charlton boss Nathan Jones last month, who downplayed the situation amid reports of outside interest:
“No contact from anyone. Part of my remit is to work with young players and develop young players to make them assets for the football club. There you go…”
Small himself has previously indicated a desire to remain at Charlton but admitted contract talks were in the hands of his agent. With the play-offs approaching and his deal set to expire, interested clubs are expected to monitor the situation closely before making formal offers.
Preston North End are known to be planning a reshuffle under manager Paul Heckingbottom following their mid-table Championship finish. With 13 contract decisions due to be confirmed at Deepdale, the club appears keen to add youthful depth and long-term value to its squad.
Writer’s View
Preston North End’s interest in Thierry Small makes clear sense—young, proven at senior level, and versatile across multiple roles, he fits the mould of a modern Championship full-back. But with competition from clubs in both the Championship and League One, PNE will need to move decisively if they hope to land his signature.
Charlton’s potential play-off promotion could yet change the dynamic, but for now, Small represents one of the most intriguing free agents on the summer market.
