Preston North End had gone relatively quiet on the transfer front, compared to their four rapid additions during the Club World Cup window, but a new defender is set to technically complete a Lancashire switch.
The versatile defender in question, is Brighton and Hove Albion’s Odel Offiah. The 22-year-old spent last season on loan at North End’s bitter rivals, Blackpool, and appeared 42 times operating as a centre or right-back. Offiah scored once in League One and also offered an assist.
According to Richard Cawley, the Lancashire outfit are set to land a permanent deal for Offiah, as opposed to a temporary spell with the former Hearts loanee. Charlton Athletic’s interest in the defender had also been credited; Preston have already lured Thierry Small away from The Valley this summer, which has now understandably sparked annoyance from the Addicks’ fan base.
As a Brighton academy graduate, Offiah played over 80 games in different youth teams with the East Sussex club. Professionally for the Seagulls, six Premier League matches and three cup appearances are all the 22-year-old’s Albion opportunities.
North End are looking to strengthen in depth as well as quality. The additions of Small, Jordan Thompson, Pol Valentín, Daniel Iversen and Daniel Jebbison – on loan from AFC Bournemouth – have provided an early squad overhaul for Paul Heckingbottom. Offiah could be used as a right-sided centre-back in a defensive three or four, as well as a forward-thinking right wing-back in a back five.
A similar instance happened last summer, where PNE snapped up ex-Blackpool fan favourite Josh Bowler on a six-month loan. It was a very underwhelming transfer subsequently, with the 26-year-old returning to Nottingham Forest having only appeared 13 times for Preston and then eight times for relegated Luton Town in the second half of the campaign.
North End will be hoping for greater success with Offiah as the (reportedly) latest to sign. Instagram comments from Blackpool fans eight weeks ago indicate that their rivals will be getting a ‘quality player’, ‘a cheat code at League One’ and a ‘Rolls Royce at right-back’.
Writer’s View
Offiah’s introduction to the North End lineup could be massively important for the Deepdale occupiers heading into a vital Championship campaign. Having narrowly avoided relegation following a dismal season conclusion, Preston will need to prioritise a better defensive structure first and foremost.
The 22-year-old’s signature will also benefit others who have been under-utilised in recent years, prior to Heckingbottom’s appointment. Potts in particular could move back to a more central role, which better suits the Lilywhite’s number 44 attributably. Valentín and Offiah will likely compete often next season as the starting right-back option, which will provide a more defensive asset compared to the former Barnsley man.
