In the meantime, record numbers of football fans have been taking to Football Manager to get their fix. For a bit of fun, we've fired up the popular management sim and sent the game into the future to have a peek at who Preston are predicted to sign over the next three transfer windows.
5. Houboulang Mendes - Loan - Norwich City
After failing to break into the Norwich side, the French right-back joins on a season-long loan. He's got a 16/20 stamina rating, and looks to be a sturdy rotation option.
6. Aaron Lennon - Free transfer
Deadline Day arrives, and Preston have one final treat for the fans in the form of the ex-England international. He's lost a lot of his pace, it must be said, but could still do a job in the second tier.
7. David Button - Brighton - 95k
Preston make just one signing in the January transfer window, with Hughton bringing in his former Seagulls backup stopper. He looks like he'll be doing a similar job at Deepdale.
8. Paulo Vitor - Marbella - 500k
Preston fail to gain promotion, and respond by signing a player from the Spanish third tier. My word. He's an ex-Brazil youth international, mind, and adds some flair on the left wing.