Preston North End have confirmed on their official website the arrival of Scott Sinclair six weeks after league rivals Derby County were heavily linked with the winger.
Sinclair moves to Deepdale following a three-and-a-half-year spell at Celtic.
Preston will feel they have struck a potential bargain after Sinclair’s success over recent seasons. And, they may have pipped some Championship rivals to his signature.
According to a report by Football Insider in November, Derby County were keen.
The Rams reportedly wanted to sign Sinclair last summer. However, the 30-year-old remained at Celtic Park leaving Derby short on wide options going into the campaign.
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Philip Cocu’s side have struggled for creativity all season. They are the joint-second lowest scorers in the Championship, netting 26 goals from as many games.
Sinclair was seemingly pinpointed as a realistic January target who could make a difference.
He enjoyed plenty of success north of the border. He was the club’s leading scorer in his first season, scoring an impressive 25 goals in 50 games in all competitions.
Sinclair won ten straight domestic trophies in Scotland. He made history at Celtic, but a return to England was always likely after former boss Brendan Rodgers departed the club.
Preston are pushing for the playoffs this season. Sinclair, a reportedly big earner at Celtic with over £30,000 per week, could be that x-factor to help the Lillywhites into the top six.
Derby may regret missing out on him with Sinclair penning a Preston deal until 2022.
Also see: Club reportedly braced for Derby, Stoke and Woodgate bids for 20-goal sensation
Also see: Manager says he wants deal for £2.6m Derby ace on one condition