Transfer gossip: Preston North End plotting January swoop for Aston Villa sensation
PNE currently sit fourth in the Championship standings after Sunday’s 2-0 win over Bristol City.
Preston North End have been credited with an interest in Aston Villa youngster Finley Munroe.
It’s been an outstanding start to the campaign at Deepdale, with Paul Heckingbottom’s men moving up to fourth following Sunday’s 2-0 win over Bristol City.
Lewis Dobbin and Alfie Devine were on the scoresheet at Ashton Gate as the Lilywhites moved to within three points of the automatic positions.
With the January window now underway, it’ll be a hugely-important month for North End to strengthen ahead of a crucial run-in in the second half of the campaign.
PNE linked with Aston Villa youngster
Indeed, PNE have been linked with a move for Aston Villa talent Munroe, who is currently impressing on loan with Swindon Town.
Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke has claimed the Lilywhites are one of a host of EFL clubs who are interested in the 19-year-old.
League One outfit Leyton Orient are also said to be keen on the full-back, who has been a standout performer for the Robins in League Two this term.
After penning a season-long loan deal at the County Ground in August, Munroe has amassed 23 outings at left-wing back, which has also seen him net two goals and register six assists so far.
The report suggests Villa could recall the Villa Park academy graduate this month as they look to further his development in first-team football.
The defender has registered two senior appearances for Unai Emery’s men so far, with substitute outings in the Europa Conference League and Premier League.
It is believed PNE, Leyton Orient and more are keen on landing Munroe on loan for the remainder of the campaign.
PNE’s loan and left-wing-back options
Heckingbottom currently has two options to choose from at present at left-wing back, with Thierry Small and Jamal Lewis both vying for a starting role.
The latter recently penned fresh terms to remain in Lancashire until the end of the campaign following the conclusion of his initial short-term deal which came to an end at the start of the month.
PNE, though, do have two loan spots available in their squad if they wish to add this month after the departure of Harrison Armstrong.
Dobbin, Devine and Daniel Jebbison all penned season-long loan contracts in the summer from Aston Villa, Spurs and Bournemouth respectively.