Irish midfielder Alan Browne, aged 31, has one year remaining on his contract and is expected to depart Sunderland permanently. FLW’s Preston Fan Pundit, Darren Watson, believes the former captain would be a good signing for Preston North End again. Watson stated that he would personally seek to bring the player back. Watson also noted that Browne has experience of a promotion and a play-off final and is wanted by several other clubs. The reason for Browne's original departure from Preston was a fallout with former manager Ryan Lowe. During the 2025/2026 season, the midfielder was on loan at Middlesbrough, where he made 38 Championship appearances, scored 4 goals, and provided 3 assists. Browne is a full international for Ireland with 39 caps and 5 goals, and his current Transfermarkt market value is €2.00m. Among the clubs recently linked with him are Derby County and Middlesbrough.