Two Signings That Preston North End Could Make After Alex Neil’s Arrival
With Alex Neil now confirmed as Simon Grayson’s replacement at Deepdale, attention moves swiftly onto who the Scot will bring in during the transfer window.
The ex-Norwich boss may yet raid his old club for talent, given that they seem open to letting a number of players leave Carrow Road, though another already familiar face could also be brought back to the club. Preston did very well for the most part last year and Neil will be keen to show that he can take them up to the next level.
In a wide open league, the play-offs are a realistic ambition for the Lancashire club this season and here are two players who Neil could bring in to help them get there.
Yanic Wildschut (Norwich City)
Wildschut knows the north west well having joined Norwich only last January from Wigan Athletic and it’s clear Neil is a big fan of his.
14 goals in 65 games came from wide or deep positions from the Dutchman while he was at Wigan is an impressive record; one that at 25 years old he can only improve on and especially at a forward thinking club.
Typically for his age, Wildschut’s profile is that of a steadily improving player’s and so whatever fee the club would be quoted would most likely be worth paying for a player they know is going to get better and better. True, the fee would be bigger than what Preston normally shell out, but if they have true ambition, then they need to get their hands in their pocket.
Aiden McGeady (Everton)
The Everton man may want to be involved in the promotion chase with a more established club as he clearly still possesses plenty of ability, so there may be competition from Sunderland and Middlesbrough.
McGeady had an excellent season last term at Deepdale and can clearly do it again in this division. The Republic of Ireland international winger has only one year left on his Everton deal and with the Merseysiders spending big this summer, they will be happy to get him off the wage bill.
A hugely impressive 8 goals and 9 assists came in the Championship last season for McGeady at Preston and similar figures for the 31-year-old this time around may well be the thing that could send Preston into the top six.