While quite a few high profile Ireland players have moved clubs in recent seasons, one footballer that has put down roots at a club is Alan Browne.
The Cork man first joined Preston North End as a youth player back in 2014, meaning he has spent almost a decade at Deepdale. He made his 400th first team appearance for the Championship side earlier this season and captains the club.
Browne has been linked with moves away from Preston on numerous occasions down through the years, especially during seasons where they have not compete for promotion. Despite this, he had never wavered in his commitment to the side.
However, it seems as though his time at the club is now coming to an end.
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Ireland star set for move after rejecting historic contract
Alan Browne’s current contract expires at the end of the season, meaning the Ireland international can join another team on a free transfer this summer.
His current club are keen to keep him, although it seems that the player feels like now is the right time to move on.
When asked if Browne would be with his team next season, Preston manager Ryan Lowe said that his future remained uncertain after the midfielder was previously offered a contract that would make him the highest paid player in the club’s history.
I would love to know, wouldn’t I? I am the manager of the football club. I need to know if I am with him or without him, or whether I can use his money or not. I am the same as everyone else.
Unfortunately, these are the questions for Alan Browne, not me. But, I am sure, at some point, he’s got a deadline and once that comes we’ll hopefully know.
What I will say is that Browney has been offered a contract that, in the club’s history, is the best you can offer anyone. I can say that on record. We have to respect Alan’s decision, whatever that may be.
They will have a couple of recovery days and we’ll sit down with Al again. I am sure you will know soon. Everyone knows what a great player he’s been for the club and we want that to continue, but it’s in Alan’s hands.
Alan Browne drew interest from Serie A during the January window, with Salernitana coming close to signing him during the winter window.
Should he opt to move on, the 35-cap Ireland star is likely to have plenty of offers on the table this summer.