Preston North End are chasing a late deal for Celtic striker Johnny Kenny. The Lilywhites are one of a group of Championship clubs eyeing the 23-year-old, according to a report from Daniel McDonnell in the Irish Independent this week.
Kenny spent the second half of last season on loan at Bolton Wanderers, helping them win promotion from League One. His performances at the Toughsheet Community Stadium have now attracted attention from the second tier. With the summer transfer window closing, Preston's search for a forward has intensified after Milutin Osmajic's departure to Genoa.
Which clubs are interested in Johnny Kenny?
Preston face competition for Kenny's signature. Blackburn Rovers and West Bromwich Albion have also been linked with the Celtic man. Bolton Wanderers retain an interest after his successful loan spell, but a permanent move is now considered more likely. Reporter Daniel McDonnell states that West Brom are viewed as the least probable to make a formal bid, having already strengthened their attacking options.
Preston's interest is described as particularly strong. The club's need for a striker is clear from their current squad list, where Jusef Erabi is the only recognised centre-forward. Manager Paul Heckingbottom has started the season using wide players Delano Burgzorg and Callum Lang in central roles, but the team has failed to score in its last two matches.
Why do Preston need a striker so badly?
The club's attacking struggles are evident in the early season results. Preston have lost all three of their Championship fixtures so far. They were also knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Everton without scoring. This poor form is reflected in the early standings, where they sit at the bottom of the table.
Osmajic's exit increased the urgency for a new signing. The search has been a priority since the window opened, and Heckingbottom will be frustrated it has dragged into the final hours. Adding a proven goalscorer like Kenny could provide a vital spark for a team searching for its first points of the campaign.
What would Johnny Kenny bring to Deepdale?
Kenny is a mobile forward who impressed during his 20 appearances for Bolton last term. He scored five goals and contributed to their promotion push, demonstrating he can perform in English football's lower divisions. His age profile and potential for development make him an attractive target for a club like Preston.
Signing him would add a natural focal point to Preston's attack. The current setup, with players operating out of position, has not yielded goals. Kenny's direct style and experience from his loan could help change that. His potential arrival would be a significant boost ahead of a busy schedule of fixtures.
What happens next in the transfer race?
Time is the critical factor, with the deadline fast approaching. Bolton's interest may intensify after they missed out on another target, Max Dean. This could force Preston to act quickly to secure their man. A deal would need to be completed before the 11pm cutoff.
While the club pursues transfer business, the focus also turns to the pitch. Preston host Bristol City at Deepdale this evening, looking to finally get their season up and running. The match kicks off at 7:45 PM on September 1st.
