It’s that time of year where out-of-contract lists come into focus, with the international break in play, the summer transfer window done and dusted and January approaching.
Preston North End have tied Brad Potts down to fresh terms so far this seaso, but a couple of key first team players remain in their final years. One of those is club captain Alan Browne, who has openly said he would be ‘happy’ to extend his contract at Deepdale. Ben Whiteman is another stand out name on the list and Andrew Hughes is there too - but PNE have a one-year option which can be triggered in the Welshman’s deal.
Here, we assess the contract state of play and weigh in with our verdict as things stand.
5. Ben Woodburn - stall
Not had much of a look in this season and is down the pecking order. But, you need a squad in the Championship and Woodburn is still only 24. May end up having to seek a move elsewhere if he wants regular game time. | CameraSport - Dave Howarth
6. Patrick Bauer - sell
Minutes have been in really short supply for Bauer in the last couple of years. North End have an option in his deal and he has been a great servant for the club, but the German will surely want to play more matches as he enters the back end of his career. | CameraSport - Rich Linley Photo: CameraSport - Rich Linley
7. Dai Cornell - stall
No major rush with the Welshman, who is a really popular member within the squad. Cracks on with his work and doesn’t grumble about being the obvious back up to Woodman. Every club needs a number two goalie. | CameraSport - Andrew Kearns Photo: CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
8. Lewis Leigh - stall
On loan with Bromley until January, so PNE can assess where Leigh stands at the end of that. He is one there were high hopes for and still only 19-years-old, but Preston will want to see progress. | CameraSport - Dave Howarth