Portsmouth and Oxford United among clubs seeking January transfer swoop for Preston player | OneFootball

Portsmouth are among the clubs keen on Preston midfielder Ryan Ledson.

Portsmouth and Oxford United are among several clubs looking to sign Preston’s Ryan Ledson, with the midfielder out of contract at Deepdale at the end of the season.

The 27-year-old joined North End in the summer of 2018, and he has gone on to make over 175 appearances for the club in that period.

However, Ledson has been restricted to a bit-part role under Paul Heckingbottom this season, and with his contract expiring in a matter of months, there are doubts about his long-term future.

Portsmouth and Oxford United keen on Preston’s Ryan Ledson

And, according to Daily Mail reporter Mike Keegan, there is interest in Ledson now, with Pompey among the admirers of the ex-Oxford United man.

“Preston midfielder Ryan Ledson is attracting interest from four clubs. Believe Portsmouth are one. Contract is up at the end of the season.”

It’s no secret that John Mousinho wants to strengthen his Pompey squad this month as they battle to stay in the league following their promotion last season.

Elsewhere, it was claimed that Oxford are also monitoring Ledson, which would see the player return to the club after he had a successful period with the U's following his move from Everton in 2016.

Ryan Ledson could be exactly what Portsmouth need

Of course, the contract situation is crucial here, as it means Preston are likely to accept an offer this month as opposed to losing Ledson for free in the summer.

Whilst he is appreciated by Heckingbottom, the reality is that the player won’t be happy with his lack of game time, so it could be a case where a switch suits all parties.

It will allow North End to get a fee, and to save on wages, which Heckingbottom can put towards a new signing.

Meanwhile, from Portsmouth’s perspective, they would be getting someone who can come in and instantly make an impact on the team.

As mentioned, Ledson has plenty of experience at this level, so he is a low-risk move in that sense, as he knows the league, and will bring battling qualities that Pompey need in the middle of the park.

Given Portsmouth’s position, they should be targeting players who can improve the group, and many would agree that Ledson falls into that category.

Ultimately, Ledson is going to have a big decision to make, as there are benefits to waiting and becoming a free agent, particularly financially. But, if he wants more football this season, a move needs to happen.