Burnley
Blackburn Rovers
Coventry City
Derby County
Leeds United
Luton Town
Middlesbrough
Millwall
Norwich City
Portsmouth
Sheffield Wednesday
Sheffield United
QPR
Preston North End have been busy in the transfer market this summer as they have looked to refresh their squad that just about beat the drop last season.
It’s expected to be a difficult season for Preston, who are among the favourites to be relegated.
Paul Heckingbottom has made some solid signings, though, including the return of Daniel Iversen to Deepdale.
While he is a quality signing, there have been a few question marks about some of the other signings and if they have the desired quality to propel them up the table.
However, this looks to be changing, as Preston are now considering a player that has impressed both Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho.
Preston closing in on Alfie Devine
Alfie Devine has been linked with a loan move to Preston North End this summer on a loan deal, according to the Lancashire Post.
The signing of Devine would strengthen the attacking options at the club, as Devine is a creative player with incredible ability on the ball and to spot a pass.
Devine has been loaned out to several clubs over the past few years; he had a loan spell in 2023/24 with Port Vale in League One before heading to the Championship with Plymouth Argyle in January.
Last season saw Devine head to Belgian Pro League side Westerlo, for whom he scored six goals in 32 matches.
There is a belief that there is an option to buy set to be included in the agreement; however, this may be a sticking point for Preston.
- READ MORE: Reading and Lincoln City among clubs monitoring striker who’s ‘hungry’ for World Cup chance
Conte and Mourinho are fans of Devine
Devine has played under some of the best managers in world football, including Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte at Tottenham Hotspur.
The youthful midfielder will have gained some incredible experience and knowledge from the managers, with Mourinho being a huge fan, as he spoke about the player after an FA Cup tie against Marine.
He said: “He’s basically a midfield player, but with an instinct to appear in finishing zones and to score goals.
“He’s a kid with good potential.”
Meanwhile, another coach spoke to the Athletic about him, as he said: “He’s a very good player, a never-say-die player.
“His team will be losing 4-0, and he’ll still be working his balls off. He’s going to be a good player, Alfie. A lot going for him and a good attitude.”