Preston's pursuit of Manchester City winger, Brandon Barker seems to have hit a frustrating blow, according to a recent update from journalist, Alan Nixon. 

Barker spent last season on loan with Preston, and Alex Neil has seemingly been pleased with what he has seen from the winger, which has seen him submit another loan bid for Barker.

The 22-year-old failed to score a league goal in 16 appearances for the Lilywhites as they finished 14th in the Championship last term.

But it seems as though any agreement between Preston and Manchester City is some way apart, as the Premier League champions only want to move Barker on permanently instead of a loan deal.

At the age of 22, it seems unlikely that the midfielder will be able to force himself into the Manchester City first-team in the near future, so it's understandable as to why they're keen to sell him.

Barker has been out on loan for the last four seasons, and it won't come as a surprise to see Pep Guardiola looking to sell him in the near future.

Preston get their Championship campaign underway with a potentially tricky fixture against Millwall, and it remains to be seen as to whether Barker will be a Preston player by then.

The Verdict: 

You can understand why Manchester City are wanting to move him on permanently.

Barker was impressive for Preston last season, and I think it would be a real coup if they were to sign him on a permanent basis, although I'm not sure they'd be able to match their valuation of the winger.

It'll be interesting to see if they can get this deal over the line before the transfer window closes in the coming weeks.