As one former PNE favourite signs for Stoke City, two more could leave
Stoke City have signed one former Preston North End player in Daniel Iversen – but could let two more go in Ben Pearson and Daniel Johnson.
A summer spending spree didn’t help Stoke and Neil was given his marching orders in December.
Despite deciding to axe the Scot, Stoke have now completed the signing of one of Neil’s former North End signings.
Stoke confirmed the signing of Leicester City goalkeeper Daniel Iversen just a few days ago, taking the Dane on loan for the rest of the season and handing him an immediate debut against Brighton and Hove Albion in the FA Cup.
Iversen joined PNE under Neil in January 2021 and went on to become a fan favourite during an 18-month stay at Deepdale.
TEAMtalk suggest that Stoke will listen to offers for midfielders Ben Pearson and Daniel Johnson during this month’s transfer window.
A fee of around £3million to £4million is mentioned for Pearson, as well as just £1million for Johnson.
Neil pounced to reunite with Pearson having worked together at North End for three-and-a-half years.
Pearson has played a key role this season but the 29-year-old may move on with interest believed to be mounting.
Neil then moved in to sign Johnson over the summer as he left PNE following the expiration of his contract.
Johnson was a key part of Neil’s midfield alongside Pearson at PNE and has bagged two goals as well as two assists for Stoke this season.
Neil’s exit may mean that his trusted lieutenants are in danger of being moved on, with Pearson and Johnson falling into that category.
Given the wages and transfer fees involved, we can’t see PNE returns on the horizon for Pearson or Johnson, even if we loved seeing them in the famous white shirt for many years
