According to a recent report by HITC Sport, Newcastle United are interested in Preston North End defender Josh Earl.

Newcastle United could look to poach Josh Earl to bolster their options in their youth side.

Josh Earl is considered to be one of the brightest prospects emerging from the Preston North End academy.

The young left back, who can also play as a winger, is yet to make his senior bow for the Lilywhites but he is hopeful that he will get some chances soon.

Alex Neil has been running the rule over Josh Earl in pre-season training and the promising youngster has been involved in their pre-season friendly matches.

His promotion to the first team picture for pre-season was testament to his fine performances in Preston North End's under-18 side last season.

However, this has also caught the attention of Newcastle United with the Premier League new boys ready to make a swoop.

Several other Premier League sides are interested in the 18-year-old but Newcastle are now stepping up their chase for Josh Earl as they seek a replacement for Lewis Gibson, who is on his way to Everton.

Josh Earl has been seen as a future first team star and they are now looking to bring him in as a youth player initially.

Preston North End are desperate to keep the talented teenager at Deepdale but they may face a battle to keep hold of him if Newcastle lodge a formal offer.

Preston fans - can you keep Earl if Newcastle make a move? Let us know below...