Preston’s Four Potential Replacements for Ben Whiteman Ahead of the Deadline

Preston North End find themselves facing an important period of the summer transfer window following Ben Whiteman’s controversial departure to Championship rivals Wrexham.

The Lilywhites have already made a major financial commitment this summer, reportedly spending around £6 million on Alfie Devine, according to Alan Nixon. However, results during pre-season have provided little encouragement, with Preston losing each of their subsequent friendlies against lower-league opposition after defeating Bamber Bridge 4-1 in July.

The departure of Whiteman has added another layer of uncertainty. The 30-year-old midfielder had been with Preston since 2021 and was appointed club captain in 2024, making more than 200 appearances for the Lancashire side.

His exit has not been straightforward. Manager Paul Heckingbottom publicly indicated that Whiteman had gone too far in his attempts to secure a move, effectively bringing an end to his time at Deepdale. With the captain now gone, Heckingbottom will need the club to find a suitable replacement.

Here are four midfield options Preston could potentially consider.

Alan Browne

A move for Alan Browne would undoubtedly appeal to Preston supporters, although bringing their former captain back could prove difficult.

Browne spent more than a decade at Deepdale after joining Preston from Cork City in 2014 as an 18-year-old. He went on to make more than 400 appearances for the club and wore the captain’s armband for four seasons before leaving for Sunderland in 2024.

His first campaign away from Lancashire was followed by a productive loan spell at Middlesbrough during 2025/26. Operating largely as a right wing-back, Browne contributed seven goals in 38 appearances and was named Championship Player of the Month for January as Boro progressed to the play-off final.

Now 31, Browne could be available for another move with Sunderland competing in Europe this season. A permanent departure or loan move could therefore be possible before the transfer deadline.

Middlesbrough are reportedly not pursuing another deal for the Irishman, while Blackburn Rovers have been linked with him. Preston may therefore need to act if they want to prevent their former skipper from turning out for one of their biggest local rivals.

George Dobson

George Dobson could represent an intriguing alternative, although Preston may feel they have missed an opportunity to sign him directly from Wrexham.

The 28-year-old joined the Welsh club as a free agent in 2024 after previously captaining Charlton Athletic. He now has only one year remaining on his contract, while the arrival of Whiteman could potentially reduce his opportunities.

Dobson enjoyed a regular role last season, making 40 league appearances and contributing four goals and assists as Wrexham finished seventh, narrowly missing out on the play-offs.

Sheffield Wednesday have reportedly considered making an approach for him, but their relegation to League One could work in Preston’s favour. Remaining in the Championship could be a more attractive proposition for Dobson, particularly if Preston can guarantee him regular football.

His ability to operate in both midfield and defensive positions would also give Heckingbottom some valuable tactical flexibility.

Deroy Duarte

Deroy Duarte may be a less familiar name to English football supporters, but his performances for Cape Verde during their historic World Cup campaign have certainly raised his profile.

The 27-year-old currently plays for Bulgarian champions Ludogorets after previously spending time with Sparta Rotterdam and Fortuna Sittard in the Netherlands.

During the 2025/26 campaign, Duarte made 33 league appearances, scoring twice and providing two assists. His versatility is one of his biggest strengths, with the midfielder capable of playing in defensive, central or more advanced positions.

He also demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure on the international stage. Duarte scored Cape Verde’s equaliser against Argentina in their World Cup last-32 clash, forcing the game into extra time despite the eventual defeat.

A move to the Championship would represent a significant change, particularly because Duarte has no previous experience of English football. However, his performances at the World Cup suggest he possesses the mentality required to handle demanding environments.

Preston have already shown a willingness to invest heavily this summer with the signing of Devine, so a deal for Duarte may not necessarily be beyond their financial reach.

Laros Duarte

Laros Duarte, Deroy’s older brother, could also be an interesting option for Preston.

The 29-year-old was another member of the Cape Verde squad that featured throughout their historic World Cup campaign, although his role is generally more defensive than that of his younger brother.

Laros currently plays for Hungarian top-flight club Puskas AFC, having joined them in 2024 on a three-year contract. That agreement means he is approaching the final year of his deal.

His previous clubs include Sparta Rotterdam and Groningen, while he also came through the PSV Eindhoven academy.

During the 2025/26 season, Duarte provided six assists in 30 league appearances and helped Puskas AFC record seven clean sheets as they finished sixth.

Unlike his brother, Laros did not score during Cape Verde’s World Cup adventure, which could mean his transfer value is more manageable. His age may also make him a more affordable option, while he remains younger than the departing Whiteman.

With Preston reportedly set to receive around £3 million from Wrexham for their former captain, that money could potentially be reinvested in a midfielder with a similar profile but slightly younger age.

For Heckingbottom, the priority now is finding someone capable of filling the leadership and midfield void left by Whiteman. Whether Preston pursue an experienced Championship figure such as Browne or take a chance on one of the Duarte brothers, the club has an important recruitment decision to make before the transfer window closes.