Preston target set to make big decision, North End keen on international defender - gossip

For Preston North End, it could be the opportunity Alex Neil needs to bring some much-needed consistency into his squad.

The Lilywhites have been linked with a potential move for Irish midfielder Jack Byrne in recent weeks, with reports in Cyprus suggesting that new APOEL manager Mick McCarthy is also keen on the player.

Now, the free agent has hinted that a decision on his future could be imminent.

The 24-year-old has been without a club since leaving Shamrock Rovers, and told the Irish Independent: “I’m away now for a week, I’m taking a week or 10 days off and get all the options on the table and sit down.

"I won’t exclude Shamrock Rovers, of course I won’t, as they’ve been so good to me over the last two years.

"I’ll sit down with my family and know everything that’s on the table, I’ll make a decision that’s best for me, my family, and my football”.

As always, we’re sharing the latest rumours from around the second tier – so scroll down to see the latest news, gossip and odds from around the internet:

Sheffield Wednesday are one of a host of clubs in the running to sign HJK Helsinki defender Daniel O’Shaughnessy in January. QPR, Barnsley, and Preston North End are also keen on the Finland international. The 26-year-old could cost around £500,000. (Football Insider)

Manchester United are willing to listen to offers for defensive outcast Phil Jones. Derby County and Middlesbrough are both said to be keen on taking him to the Championship. (The Athletic)

Watford are one of a number of clubs keeping tabs on Nimes Olympique midfielder Matteo Ahlinvi. The 21-year-old is also attracting interest from VfB Stuttgart and Swiss side Young Boys. (Foot Mercato)

Brentford are in talks with promising striking talent Marcus Forss over a new long-term deal. The 21-year-old is said to on the radar of Tottenham Hotspur and Borussia Dortmund. (TEAMtalk)

Brighton are considering recalling 20-year-old attacking midfielder Ryan Longman from his loan spell at AFC Wimbledon. The youngster has impressed in League One, and it’s understood that a number of Championship sides would be willing to offer him another temporary stint at a higher level during the second half of the season. (Daily Mail)

Liverpool have had a bid accepted for by Birmingham City for England youth international Calum Scanlon. The versatile 15-year-old defender will cost the Reds £500,000. (The Times)

Kevin Campbell has argued that Reading starlet Michael Olise is ready to make the step up to the Premier League. The 19-year-old has an £8 million release clause in his contract, and is said to be attracting interest from Leeds United Liverpool, Arsenal, Wolves, and Crystal Palace, among others. (Football Insider)

Sheffield Wednesday are set to reignite their interest in free agent Andre Green. The winger has been without a club since leaving Aston Villa four months ago. (Football Insider)