Hayes had been in talks with Charlton and is set to sign for them at some point this week. Preston were keen for the striker to move on as he was on a high wage at Deepdale. The striker also wished to move after spending a torris season at Preston.
In the interest of all parties, Hayes was released from his contract, presumably with Preston saving the best portion of a fortune by releasing little or no compensation for the remaining two years left on his contract which allows Charlton to sign the striker on a free.