Even without the pandemic the off season was going to be busy for the North End hierarchy. Several key players have one year remaining on their contracts and North End typically look to cash in to balance the books with one significant sale.
Preston have extended the contracts of Maguire and Ledson with both signing two year deals. Ledson will be looking for more opportunities this season after finishing well last term. Maguire still has a significant amount of doubters to overcome if he is going to be a success in the eyes of the fans.
The most important signing off the off season thus far was a new one year deal for Paul Gallagher. He has been an important part of the squad but in recent times he has simply been offered one year deals.
The position was unclear with the pandemic. Gallagher signed a short extension to play out the remainder of the season post lockdown but it is clear that Preston will need his experience next season especially if they lose key players in midfield.
There are still a number of key issues to resolve. Pearson and Davies are the big ticket names who fans fear may be sold. There are others including Harrop and Browne where the situation is unclear.
The present problem is that this off season is far from normal. Clubs have lost a significant amount of cash with revenue down due to no fans in attaendance at games. Many are cautious over making big purchases.
Preston have typically sold one key player a year to balance the books. Robinson and Hugill are recent examples but the question is whether clubs are now prepared to part the sort of money Preston need in these uncertain times.
Decisions will likely be made over the next few weeks prior to the start of the season. North End will likely look to the lower leagues and loan deals to try to supplement their squad in what will be an interesting season.