Preston eye Dickinson deal

Dickinson: Preston target

Preston North End are hoping to boost their defensive options by bringing in Stoke City full-back Carl Dickinson.

Lilywhites boss Darren Ferguson is keen to secure cover for Callum Davidson and has confirmed he has discussed a move with Dickinson.

The 23-year-old has recently revealed he is ready to leave Stoke in search of greater first-team opportunities next season after struggling to make an impact since the club's promotion to the Premier League.

He made just one appearance for the Potters in the Carling Cup last season and spent most of the campaign on loan in the Championship with Barnsley.

Keen to join

Ferguson believes Dickinson is keen to head to Deepdale and is now looking to agree a suitable deal with Stoke for the left-back.

"All I can say is that I have a very, very good left-back in Callum - a good captain," Ferguson told the club's official website. "But I am aware of his past injury record and I hope that's not going to be the case this season.

"With his age it is difficult to play that number of games so I've got to be looking to bring a left-back in.

"I've spoken to Carl and he wants to come, as simple as that - we're just trying to negotiate a deal."