Preston North End linked man wants Championship move but Portsmouth lead race - reports

Preston North End are one of many clubs credited with interest in Luke Graham - who reportedly wants a move to the Championship.

Portsmouth have been strongly tipped to secure his signing this summer, but speculation around the 22-year-old centre-back’s future is rife.

Derby, Norwich, Stoke, Charlton and newly promoted Lincoln are all said to be keen, along with Rangers and multiple European sides.

However, reports suggests that the English second tier is where Graham wants to test himself next - over a stay in Scotland.

Back in January, Pompey saw a £1.5million bid rejected for the player - who has 12 months left to run on his contract at Dens Park.

He came through the club’s academy system and had five loan spells away, but has made 45 appearances for the first team.

Graham is not in the Scotland squad for this summer’s World Cup but did link up with his nation in January, for a pre-tournament camp.

’A lot of interest’

Head coach Steven Pressley said: “There’s a lot of interest in Luke from here, England and abroad. It’s difficult to see him here next season with the amount of clubs interested. But we’re in no rush to sell. I understand if we get to the valuation we will sell, I know that.

“The big thing is, for clubs like us to function properly, there needs to be good outcomes in terms of the fee. But it’s not just the fee, there’s the sell-on as well because what you can receive is very important these days.

“Of course you want to demand as high a fee as possible, but it’s beneficial to look beyond that. Luke has the capabilities to be a centre-back in the English Premier League down the line. But if he is still here in August, I’d be very happy.”