Preston North End have signed winger Stan Mills from Oxford United. The 22-year-old has moved to Deepdale for an undisclosed fee and signed a three-year contract, as confirmed by the BBC this week.
Mills returns to the Championship after Oxford United's relegation to League One last season. He made 43 league appearances for them in that campaign and featured once this term before the transfer. Preston finished 14th in the Championship last season with 60 points from 46 games, and they will look to Mills to help improve on that position.
Where does Stan Mills fit in the Preston squad?
Stan Mills provides width and versatility for manager Paul Heckingbottom. The player can operate on either flank, offering options down the right-hand side or the left if needed. Heckingbottom highlighted the winger's athleticism and delivery. "He's got excellent athleticism down the right-hand side, or the left if needed, and has good delivery into the box," the Preston boss said. This signing addresses a clear need for a side that scored 55 goals but conceded 62 last season, finishing with a negative goal difference.
Mills joins a squad that is preparing for its next Championship fixture against Bristol City at home on September 1st. Fans can track the team's schedule on our fixtures page. Bristol City finished 12th last term, making this an important early-season test for Preston.
What is Stan Mills's career path to Preston?
Stan Mills began his professional career at Leeds United before moving to Everton. He made two EFL Cup appearances for the Toffees but sought more regular first-team football. A loan move to Oxford United in January 2025 became permanent, and he was a consistent performer for them last season. His development at Oxford caught the eye of Preston's recruitment team. "I've been aware of him for a while but really thought he progressed last season and now he's come into his own," Heckingbottom added.
His move was anticipated by Oxford manager Aaron Ramsey, who had previously indicated Mills would join Preston in January. The deal was finalized ahead of that timeline, giving Mills a full pre-season with his new club.
How does this transfer affect Preston's season?
The acquisition of Stan Mills is a direct response to Preston's need for more attacking threat. The club ended the 2025 season 35 points behind champions Coventry, underlining the gap they aim to close. Adding a young, dynamic winger is a step towards addressing that. Mills's ability to play on either side offers tactical flexibility as Heckingbottom looks to build on a recent form line of LWLLW from the end of last season.
Supporters can examine the full squad profile, including new additions, on our squad page. The focus now shifts to integrating Mills quickly ahead of the Bristol City match and the new campaign. His arrival adds competition for places and provides a fresh option in the final third as Preston aim to start the season strongly.
