Leeds United transfer clause confirmed as forward gears up for new challenge

Preston North End have included an option to buy Sam Greenwood as part of their loan deal with Leeds United, it has emerged. The Lilywhites made Greenwood, who spent the previous campaign on loan at Middlesbrough, their first summer recruit on Friday.

Boro did the same last year, with a fee of £1.5million agreed with United, but the Riverside club opted not to bring the forward back on a full-time basis. Greenwood made 37 Championship appearances for Middlesbrough, including 25 starts. He claimed five goals and three assists.

On joining Preston, Greenwood said: “I’m over the moon. I can’t wait to get started and meet all the lads, and just to work hard to see where we can get.

“It went really quickly and when I knew that Ryan wanted me. I believe that he’s a manager that can get the best out of me. I know how good he is and he’s a young up-and-coming manager so it gives me confidence to play under him. I can’t wait to play at Deepdale in front of the fans and get them off their seats.”

A versatile attacking player, Greenwood will go away to Spain for North End’s forthcoming pre-season training camp. Boss Ryan Lowe said: “I actually spent a bit of time with Sam last summer when he was training abroad and I saw what he was capable of. We tried to sort something then but we couldn’t quite get it done and he ended up going to Middlesbrough. We feel he has a big part to play and we’re really pleased to have him with us for the season.”