Stoke City and Preston North End are set to compete for the signature of Josh Edwards.

According to Football Insider, the Championship clubs are both interested in the Dunfermline defender.

A valuation of the 22-year old has been placed at £100,000 but the Scottish side are set to demand a sell-on clause be inserted into any agreement for the player.

The left-back has entered the final 12 months of his deal with Dunfermline, making an exit the most likely option this summer as the club looks to cash-in on the player.

The club does not want to lose the player on a free next summer so will be forced into a sale unless a contract extension can be agreed.

Edwards signed a two-year deal with Dunfermline at the end of the 2020-21 season after receiving the Pars Young Player of the Year award.

 

 

The Scot performed well this season and became one of the club’s most important players, competing 43 times in all competitions.

In that time he contributed two goals and six assists.

Stoke and PNE are both in the market for a new left-back this summer, with the Potters resigned to the possibility of losing Josh Tymon.

The Verdict

If Tymon does leave this summer, then Edwards looks like an exciting replacement option.

However, Michael O’Neill’s side faces competition for the defender’s signature.

Fortunately, the £100,000 price tag should not be seen as much of a barrier to a full agreement being made.

A sell-on clause could prove costly in the long-term, but it is worth it if the player ultimately goes on to become a huge success at his new club.