Preston North End have had plenty of success in the loan market over recent seasons, but how does their permanent recruitment compare?
The Lilywhites spent a reported fee in excess of £1.5million to land Plymouth Arygle defender Lewis Gibson last week - the centre-back is manager Paul Heckingbottom’s first permanent recruit and he could debut this weekend at Deepdale.
Going back to the summer of 2019, a total of 28 players have signed for PNE on permanent deals. Some have been first team regulars for the duration of their North End careers, others have been up and down while a handful never really got going at all.
Here’s how we rate every one of those acquisitions...
21. Greg Cunningham - 5
The second coming of Cunningham saw him stay at PNE for another three years. There were injury blows and the Irishman was in and out of the team, but when he stepped in he rarely let North End down. | Getty Images
22. Ched Evans - 6
The signing at the time generated plenty of debate but Evans exceeded expectations on the pitch and had a strong 2022/23 campaign - scoring nine goals and often being the focal point in attack for Preston. | Jess Hornby
23. Ben Whiteman - 7.5
The midfielder has been an ever-present during his four years at the club. He perhaps hasn't quite reached the heights hoped upon arrival, but Whiteman has been a good servant on the whole. His derby day strike at Ewood Park and free-kick against Blackpool can never be taken away from him. | Dan Istitene
24. Emil Riis - 7.5
The Dane has been a solid addition to the striking department at Deepdale. He provides a goal contribution every other start and every three games. Suffered a dreadful injury in January 2023 which saw him miss almost a year of football, but netted 16 goals in 2021/22 and is on course for double figures this year - assuming he stays. | Getty Images