Preston North End are working with midfielder Tom Bayliss to cancel his contract at Deepdale this summer, as per a report from the Lancashire Evening Post. 

The 23-year-old, who is not part of Ryan Lowe's plans going forward, has a contract that is set to expire next summer.

Bayliss did not feature in the Championship under the former Plymouth Argyle boss last season, spending some time on loan with eventual League One champions Wigan Athletic. 

The midfielder has been linked with a move to Shrewsbury Town, however, it would appear that Bayliss' contract situation at Deepdale is proving to be somewhat of a stumbling block. 

A Bayliss departure would then give Lowe scope to bolster his side further, adding one extra squad place that the 42-year-old could look to fill. 

The verdict 

Of course, the ideal scenario would be to generate a fee for the midfielder's services, especially with Bayliss still just 23 years of age, however, if a fee is blocking his exit, then this makes perfect sense. 

Ultimately, it will be a disappointing blow for the Championship outfit, given the promise and expectation levels he arrived with, but a decision that will benefit all involved. 

Bayliss will be printed with an opportunity to rebuild his career in a lower division, Shrewsbury will be getting an exciting player who has been in need of a regular chance, whilst Preston will be opening up a spot in the squad. 

A player who could quite easily regain confidence and thrive in the Championship, it does seem that a move away from the division might be the next best step.