Preston were always aware of LIverpool's interest with Roy Hodgson being spotted at Deepdale earlier in the season but Maurice Lindsay has stated that despite the cost cutting exercise, Barton was one player that Preston would be reluctant to let leave the club.
The transfer window is now open and Liverpool may well come in with a bid over the next few weeks as they look to be shifting towards a more youthful policy. Barton is only 19 and this is his first full season but he has already been called up by Northern Ireland at senior level.