Preston North End F.C. takeover twist as Amr Zedan cost emerges and Paul Heckingbottom issues warning

Preston North End F.C. have seen their promotion ambitions fade after a strong start to the season, with a dip in form leaving them out of the play-off race heading into the final fixtures.

Under Paul Heckingbottom, the Lilywhites had been firmly in contention for a top-six finish, but inconsistent results in the second half of the campaign have allowed rivals such as Southampton F.C., Hull City A.F.C., Wrexham A.F.C. and Derby County F.C. to pull away.

With promotion hopes effectively over, attention has turned to the summer transfer window and long-term planning, while reports of a potential takeover have added another layer of intrigue. Investor Amr Zedan has been linked with a move to buy the club, with estimates suggesting a deal could cost between £12–15 million.

Heckingbottom has acknowledged the financial limitations Preston operate under, pointing out that the club likely ranks among the lowest spenders in the division.

Despite this, he believes their current position reflects strong overachievement and insists success is not solely determined by budget, citing clubs like Lincoln City F.C. as examples of teams punching above their weight.

However, the manager also admitted that even a modest increase in investment—something a takeover could provide—could significantly boost their chances of competing for promotion in future seasons.

Elsewhere, comparisons have been drawn with other clubs undergoing ownership changes, including Sheffield Wednesday F.C., who have also been subject to takeover interest.

On the transfer front, Preston are reportedly targeting Reyes Cleary, while uncertainty surrounds the future of loanee Alfie Devine. The midfielder, currently on loan from Tottenham Hotspur F.C., is believed to have a £4.5 million option-to-buy clause in his deal.

However, Celtic F.C. are also reportedly interested in signing Devine, with manager Martin O’Neill recently attending a Preston match to assess him.

A potential change in ownership could play a key role in whether Preston can secure Devine’s services permanently. Supporters believe increased financial backing may allow the club to meet both the transfer fee and wage demands needed to complete the deal.

Overall, while this season may end in disappointment, optimism remains that with improved resources, smart recruitment, and stability off the pitch, Preston could mount a stronger promotion challenge in the near future.