AliousSunderland’s reported transfer target, Emil Riis, appears likely to leave Preston North End at the end of the season, according to head coach Paul Heckingbottom.
The Black Cats were linked with the Danish striker in January, but no move materialized. However, Riis showcased his ability against Sunderland earlier this week, netting the opening goal in a 1-1 draw at the Stadium of Light. With his contract at Preston set to expire this summer and no signs of an extension, Heckingbottom admitted that the forward—who has scored 10 Championship goals this season—seems set for an exit.
Speaking in a press conference on Thursday, Heckingbottom stated: “As things stand, he’ll be leaving. But ultimately, the decision is in Emil’s hands, just like with any player whose contract is running out. It’s their right to choose what’s next for them. He’s done really well, and I’ve seen firsthand the impact he can have.
“When contracts expire, it’s simply part of the game. No club should force a player to stay if they don’t want to, and players shouldn’t feel obligated to play for a club that doesn’t want to keep them. There’s no reason for bad blood—both sides should be free to make their decisions and move forward.”
Heckingbottom’s remarks echo a similar sentiment shared by George Hodgson, a journalist covering Preston North End for the Lancashire Post.
Before Tuesday’s game against Sunderland, Hodgson told *The Echo*: “The expectation is that Riis will leave. While the manager hasn’t completely ruled out the possibility of him staying—especially since Riis has enjoyed working under him—the feeling is that he wants a fresh challenge and won’t be signing a new deal.
“He’s a proven Championship-level striker with ambition, so I expect several clubs to be interested. Sunderland might be one of them if they remain in the division next season. However, I’m not sure he’s ready for the Premier League just yet—maybe as part of a four-man attacking rotation. He could also look for opportunities abroad.
“In terms of concrete interest from Sunderland, it’s hard to say. They might have scouted him, just as Sheffield United did before signing Tom Cannon. He was on their list, and Sunderland may have done the same.”
With Riis likely to be on the move, speculation will continue about his next destination, and Sunderland could be among the clubs monitoring his situation.
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