“Leeds Likely to Make Big Move for Him” – Pundit Responds to Preston North End’s Interest in Ryan Kent

Former England international Carlton Palmer believes free-agent winger Ryan Kent, linked to Preston North End, could be persuaded to join them over Leeds United in January if given a guarantee of regular playing time.

As the January transfer window approaches, many Championship clubs have likely identified targets, including Oldham-born left-winger Kent.

Known for his skill on the ball, Kent is drawing interest from several clubs, especially in the Championship.

Recently, transfer journalist Alan Nixon reported via Patreon that Preston has joined the race for Kent’s signature.

Kent is currently a free agent after parting ways with Turkish side Fenerbahçe in October following a mutual contract termination.

His time at Fenerbahçe ended on a sour note, with Kent forced to train alone after a falling out with then-coach Ismail Kartal.

Since his departure, Kent has been linked with a potential move to Leeds United by Football Insider, while The Sun reported last month that League One team Leyton Orient had an interest in bringing him back to English football.

Clubs in Saudi Arabia have also reportedly expressed interest.

Palmer believes Preston North End could be the ideal destination for Kent under one key condition.

Kent’s previous experience in the Championship includes loan spells with Barnsley and Bristol City during his time with Liverpool, where he developed a strong working relationship with Paul Heckingbottom, now Preston’s manager.

Heckingbottom first gave Kent a significant opportunity in senior football, with the young winger making 47 appearances and contributing three goals and three assists for Barnsley in the 2016/17 season.

Since then, Kent has gained extensive European experience with Rangers, where he helped them win the Scottish Premiership in 2021.

His subsequent move to Fenerbahçe, however, did not work out as expected, and he made just 19 appearances in Turkey over 16 months before his contract was canceled.

With competition from Leeds for Kent’s signature, Palmer believes Preston could be a better fit, given Heckingbottom’s familiarity with Kent and the increased likelihood of playing time.

Speaking to Football League World, Palmer explained, “Ryan has worked with Paul Heckingbottom before at Barnsley in the 2016/17 season.

That relationship could definitely help Preston’s chances.

Preston has had a tough start, while Leeds is aiming for Premier League promotion, but regular playing time could make Preston an appealing option for Kent.”

Palmer further emphasized that Kent’s lack of a current club shouldn’t reflect a lack of interest: “He’s not a player without a club because no one wants him.

His contract was paid out, and he can only sign a new deal in January. I can see Leeds going for him depending on their injury situation.”

Despite Kent’s appeal, Preston may need reinforcements in other areas, particularly defense.

Preston has struggled this season, with no wins in their last six league and cup games and 14 goals conceded in that span.

They are hovering near the relegation zone, and while Kent could boost their attack, manager Heckingbottom may need to prioritize defensive signings to stabilize the squad.

Additionally, Heckingbottom has not extensively used traditional wingers, opting instead for a back-three and wing-back system similar to his predecessor.

This tactical choice means that Preston’s current wingers, Jeppe Okkels and Josh Bowler, have only played 291 and 350 minutes across all competitions, respectively.

Unless Heckingbottom plans to adjust his formation, bringing in Kent could add depth to a position that is not heavily utilized.

While Kent’s links to Heckingbottom and his experience in the Championship make him a strong candidate, he would need clarity about his role and game-time commitment from Preston.

The 28-year-old’s talent could make a substantial impact in the Championship’s second half, but any move should be contingent on a clear plan for his integration into the team.