The latest transfer talk from Deepdale as Preston North End prepare for the January transfer window.

Everton are gearing up to deliver a blow to Preston North End’s hopes of a successful push for the Championship play-offs over the coming days.

Paul Heckingbottom’s side are sitting just one point and one place outside of the top six following Monday night’s defeat at Wrexham - but there is no doubt North End have surpassed all expectations during the first half of the season and the mood remains positive going into the new year.

The form of several summer signings have inspired something of a turnaround in fortunes - and loan addition Harrison Armstrong has played his part with a number of impressive performances since he joined North End from Everton on transfer deadline day.

An initial season-long loan deal was agreed - but, as is the case in such agreements, a mid-season break clause can be inserted into the deal and that means Heckingbottom could be at risk of losing the services of the England Under-19 international.

The North End boss was asked for an update on Armstrong earlier this week as speculation over a possible recall by Everton increased.

He replied: “Again, I have, but I've got nothing to speak to you guys about yet.”

However, there was a major update from Toffees manager David Moyes in the aftermath of his side’s 2-0 win at Premier League rivals Nottingham Forest on Tuesday as he said a recall for the midfielder was ‘more than likely’.

Speaking in early November, North End assistant manager and former Everton star Stuart McCall stressed the need for the youngster to remain at Deepdale for the entire campaign to boost his development.

He told BBC Radio Lancashire: "He [Armstrong] is doing ok - but he needs to stay with us until the end of the season there is no doubt about that," McCall said. I looked at all his games he played at Derby. It was his maturity, at Derby, they were fighting for their lives at the the time when he went in, and it was more him doing bits of the game people don't see.

"For an 18-year-old his game intelligence was very good, he is such a popular lad in the dressing room and he gets on with the young and the old. I thought he would be good when we managed to get him, and we had to wait until the deadline, but he has been worth it, and better than I would have imagined."

However, it now seems likely Armstrong will return to Everton and play a part in their bid to push for European competition during the second half of the season.

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