Newcastle United target Josh Earl has signed a new three-year deal with Preston North End, all but ending speculation the defender was being eyed by the Magpies.
Earl made his debut for Preston only earlier this season against Reading, and has since been a staple in Alex Neil’s side.
Newcastle had been thought to be keen to take the youngster on-loan this summer, however with no move having materialised, it was widely expected they would go in for the youngster again this winter, this time on a permanent basis.
However, with Earl having now signed an improved deal with Preston, the Magpies hopes of securing the youngster have now ended.
“I never expected all this to happen, the plan was to go on loan at the start of the season and get games but the opportunity came,” Earl said.
“The first four games have been tough but I’m getting to grips with it.”
