Preston North End and Cardiff City joined by Premier League club in transfer chase for £300k star

Preston North End have been joined by two more clubs in the race to sign Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Marc Leonard.

Football Insider are reporting that Hull City and Sheffield United are chasing Leonard's signature. The 22-year-old is in demand with the Lilywhites reported to have an interest along with Cardiff City and Plymouth Argyle.

Sheffield United were relegated from the Premier League at the weekend and the Blades will be tasked with assembling a squad capable of securing an immediate return. Hull could be trading places with them as they’re still in with a chance of reaching the play-offs though they need to beat Plymouth and hope North End beat West Brom.

It was previously reported that Swansea City held an interest but Luke Williams last week addressed the rumours, admitting he was none the wiser to the speculation. He didn’t rule a move out for him though with a meeting scheduled for their transfer plans.

"I didn't really hear anything yet," he said. "But then we do have a big recruitment meeting coming up that's maybe going to shed some more light on that.

"But I don't know."

All six clubs who have been strongly linked with him over the last 18 months will reportedly have to pay a fee of around £300,000 to secure his services. Leonard has been with Northampton Town for the past two seasons and won their Player of the Year awards voted for by their fans and players.