Preston North End have squashed claims that Alex Neil is set to become the new manager of fellow Championship side Stoke City.

The Potters are on the lookout for a new manager after parting company with Nathan Jones on Friday afternoon - the Welshman winning just six out of 38 games in charge.

Radio show talkSPORT revealed on Saturday afternoon that Stoke were set to move swifty in finding Jones' repalcement, though, with Alex Neil reportedly set to leave Preston and become their new manager.

But amid this huge amount of speculation, Preston have put out a club statement squashing those rumours, whilst also revealing that they have reported Stoke to the EFL after an alleged illegal approach for Neil.

They said: "Contrary to reports on Talksport today, Preston North End Football Club can confirm the following. Stoke City Football Club have not been given permission to speak our contracted manager Alex Neil.

"As a result of the reports that were made this lunch time, there are now no circumstances under which Stoke City would be given permission to speak to Alex Neil. We have today reported Stoke City to the EFL for an illegal approach. There will be no further comment at this stage."

Preston have also posted another club statement, insisting that Neil has reiterated his commitment to the club, as they prepare to face Charlton Athletic at Deepdale on Sunday afternoon.

The Lilywhites occupy fourth spot in the Sky Bet Championship table after winning seven of their first 14 games - a victory against the Addicks would see them climb to the top of the league tomorrow.

The Verdict

This is a statement that Preston had to publish - who knows what kind of effect this rumour may have had on players, staff and fans?

I think Neil would be a massive coup of an appointment for Stoke, but it's hard to see him leaving Deepdale given how well Preston have started this season.

He is building something special there, so it will be interesting to see where Stoke will go now.