According to Football Insider, Leeds United have missed out on the signing of Josh Earl, who has opted to commit his long-term future to Preston North End.  

Latest reports have revealed that Leeds were interested in signing the 18-year-old full-back, who was also attracting attention from the Premier League.

Liverpool, Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth and Brighton and Hove Albion were all other clubs reportedly interested in Earl, who has now agreed a new contract at Deepdale.

Due to interest in the 18-year-old from elsewhere, Preston have moved to secure the defender’s long-term future, with Earl signing a three-year deal and committing himself to the Lilywhites until at least the summer of 2020.

Earl only became professional over the summer, but has enjoyed a successful start to life in Preston’s first-team, with Alex Neil putting his faith in the defender following Greg Cunningham’s injury.

The 18-year-old has featured in Preston’s last four Championship fixtures, helping Neil’s side remain unbeaten in that time and move up into the play-off positions.

Preston have kept clean sheets in three of the four games Earl has played in, including Tuesday’s impressive 3-0 victory over Cardiff City, which knocked the Bluebirds off the top of the Championship table.

The Verdict

Earl’s performance since he was drafted into the Preston first-team has been superb, and it is no surprise to learn that Leeds and other clubs were monitoring his situation at Deepdale.

Preston will be absolutely delighted to secure Earl’s long-term future, with the defender excelling whilst filling the big void left by Cunningham in the back-four.

Despite securing Earl’s service, it would be no surprise to see Preston tested in the coming transfer windows, particularly if the 18-year-old can continue his rapid development.

Preston fans… Let us know your thoughts!