Alan Browne turns down new deal to end 10-year stay at Preston North End

NEW CHALLENGE AWAITS: Alan Browne has ended his 10-year spell at Preston North End, the club have officially announced. Photo credit: Barrington Coombs/PA Wire.

Alan Browne has ended his 10-year spell at Preston North End, the club have officially announced.

The Republic of Ireland international joined Preston from Cork City back in January 2014 and would go on to make 412 appearances for the Lilywhites, captaining the team for the last four seasons.

North End had been hoping to tie the 29-year-old down to a new deal but they confirmed that the Cork native turned down their offer of a three-year extension and instead opted to leave on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract on Sunday.

On Monday, the Championship side released a statement to pay homage to the club 'legend' and wished him well with his next move.

It is believed that Coventry City and Sheffield United are just two of the club's looking to secure the playmaker's services.

Thank you, Browney. 🫶#pnefc pic.twitter.com/WiOapMJhcr

— Preston North End FC (@pnefc) July 1, 2024

"Preston North End can confirm that Alan Browne’s contract expired yesterday evening on 30th June 2024.

"Alan has informed the club that he will not be accepting the offer of a three-year extension to his existing contract and he therefore leaves North End with the best wishes of everybody.

"Whatever the remaining period of his playing career has in store for him, the club would like to wish Alan, Shauna, and their family all the best for the future. He will forever remain welcome back at Deepdale.

"Club captain and a member of the 400 Club, Alan leaves PNE with club legend status."

Elsewhere fellow Leesider John Egan has also confirmed he will leave Sheffield United.