Ben Pearson completes move to Preston

Preston North End have completed the signing of midfielder Ben Pearson from Manchester United for a fee believed to be around £100,000.

The England U20 international never made a first team appearance for the Red Devils and spent the latter part of last season and the early stages of this season on loan at Barnsley.

Pearson was highly rated by staff at Manchester United’s academy and was named the club’s young player of the year in 2013.

Preston manager Simon Grayson expressed his delight at the move, telling the club’s official website, “We knew about Ben whilst he was at Manchester United and he was the right age to go out and get some games and we have kept our eye on him whilst he has been at Barnsley.

“He has played close on 50 games on the spin for them. He has played as a holding midfield player; played in a three getting forward, and we see him as energetic, box-to-box, likes a tackle and coming from Manchester United he is decent on the ball as well.

“He’s at the right age; wants to go and make a good career in the game and we are delighted that we have been backed by the owner to spend the money to bring Ben here and also delighted he has come here and committed his future to being a Championship player and beyond.”

Pearson will go straight into the squad for tomorrow’s trip to Bristol City and will wear the number 4 shirt.

After winning promotion via the play-offs last season Preston have adapted well to life in the Championship and are currently sitting in 15th place, 10 points above the drop zone.