A poor run of form saw Preston North End fall away from the playoff spots midway through the first half of the season, but in recent weeks Alex Neil’s side have been resurgent, and are back in the mix for a top-six finish.
The Scottish boss has a strong squad at Deepdale, and will know that playoff football is firmly within reach should his side continue their current run of excellent form.
A deal has been agreed for prolific Motherwell striker Louis Moult, but several more additions could be required on the new year if Neil’s side are to have a realistic chance of securing a top-six berth this semester.
With that in mind, the former Norwich City boss should look to target this trio…
Josh Windass
23-year-old Windass has impressed with Rangers since linking up with the club from Accrington Stanley last year, and could be set for a move back to England should Neil up his interest in the player.
A solid playmaker with a keen eye for a goal, Windass could make all the difference at Deepdale this season, with his ability to find space between opposition midfields and defences a characteristic that will appeal to Neil.
The son of former Hull City legend Dean, the youngster has massive potential to become a top Championship midfielder, and if Preston can strike now before Windass truly begins to discover his ability, Neil could grab the star for a bargain price.
Nick Powell
Powell would offer a similar threat at Preston as Windass, and is certainly proving himself in League One with Wigan Athletic.
The former Manchester United youngster has spent the majority of his career in the north west since graduating from the famed Crewe Alexandra academy, and a switch to Preston would not only allow the player to remain in the region, but play at a much higher level.
Approaching the ten-goal mark already this season, Powell could easily break twenty this term, and his ability to add goals from midfield could prove to be a huge factor in whether the Lilywhites makes the playoffs or not.
Sebastien Bassong
The defender worked with Neil at Norwich for several seasons, and could reunite with his former boss in the new year.
A free agent since his release from the Canaries in the summer, Bassong is available to join a club when the winter window opens for business, and could be registered as a Preston North End player on January 1st.
Bassong is a talented, experienced central defender who would add serious depth to the squad at Deepdale, and could prove to be a welcome addition to the promotion-chasing squad.
The French-born Cameroonian international is keen to get back into football, and a six-month deal could work for all parties.
Preston fans, would this trio make a difference to your promotion push this season? Have your say below...