Who is Justin Devenny? Preston North End linked with Leicester City and Southampton transfer target
PNE have made one signing in the summer transfer window so far
Preston North End have been credited with interest in Crystal Palace’s Justin Devenny.
Journalist Alan Nixon has linked the Lilywhites with the Northern Ireland international, who has made 60 first team appearances for the Eagles. Devenny, 22, is a left-footed attacking midfielder whom Palace signed from Airdrieonians in 2023.
Born in Irvine, Scotland he came through the ranks at Kilmarnock and had loan spells at Broomhill and Airdrieonians. He joined the latter permanently on the back of that stint but only lasted one season there.
Now, speculation swirls around the number 55’s future at Selhurst Park. Relegated Leicester City have been linked with a possible £5million move for the player, while Southampton are also said to be admirers.
Nixon suggests that PNE would prefer a loan move. If that isn’t possible, he adds that North End would be reluctant to spend the Alfie Devine money on Devenny. Preston, last month, activated their option to buy Devine for c£6m but haven’t concluded a deal yet.
Devenny has one year remaining on his contract with Palace. He started seven Premier League games last year and was introduced in a further 14 matches. Speaking last month, he aired his ambition to impress new Eagles boss, Pierre Sage, but also get more game time.
He told the Irish News: “It is a fresh start when I get back so I will be looking to kick on and do well. With every season, every game throughout my career, it has progressed pretty quickly, but I’ve been in and out, getting minutes here and there.
“My intentions will be going back for pre-season and really just hitting the ground running and trying my best and keep working hard. You never know, because things change a lot in football and they change quick.
“I just need to keep focusing on myself, work hard. It’s almost a fresh start for everyone when we get back and it just brings opportunities. I want to be playing week-in, week-out, and hopefully I’ll do that.”