Preston North End have announced a "statement" of intent this summer, with manager Paul Heckingbottom highlighting a new seven‑figure pitch at Deepdale and the permanent signing of Alfie Devine as the club gears up for the Carabao Cup opener. The team finished 14th in the Championship last season with 60 points, a foundation they hope to improve upon.
What summer work has Preston completed?
Heckingbottom praised the installation of a state‑of‑the‑art playing surface, noting that Deepdale will host a top‑quality pitch once the project is finished. Because the work isn’t complete, the opening cup tie against Huddersfield Town will be staged at Goodison Park. The manager also pointed to the club’s record fee for former loanee Alfie Devine, now signed permanently from Tottenham Hotspur after an impressive loan spell.
Which players have joined the squad permanently?
In addition to Devine, goalkeeper Lee Nicholls has secured a long‑term deal, and forward Jusef Erabi, previously on loan, will also stay on a permanent contract. These moves reflect the club’s strategy to retain talent that performed well last season while freeing up space for further recruitment before the transfer window closes on September 1.
Who has left Preston this summer?
Seven players were released at the end of the 2025‑26 campaign, and veterans Jack Walton, Michael Smith and Ben Whiteman have already found new clubs. Heckingbottom admitted that the squad will look different once the window shuts, emphasizing the need to replace departing players and continue building depth.
What are the next steps for Preston?
With the Carabao Cup match looming, the focus now shifts to finalising the pitch upgrade and completing the remaining transfer business. Heckingbottom stressed that the "statement of intent" is evident in the Devine signing and the new pitch, but the club must keep improving in other areas to ensure a strong squad for the upcoming Championship season.
