Transfer Race with Preston North End and Millwall as Deal for Filip Marschall Nears Completion

BREAKING: Norwich City Look Out of Transfer Race with Preston North End and Millwall as Deal for Filip Marschall Nears Completion

Preston North End are closing in on the signing of Aston Villa goalkeeper Filip Marschall, with Championship rivals Norwich City understood to have stepped back from the race, leaving just two clubs battling it out for the 21-year-old’s signature.

The highly-rated young stopper, who has long been touted as a future Premier League regular, has spent recent seasons developing with loan spells in the lower divisions. Now, with his path to first-team action at Villa Park still blocked by senior options, Marschall is ready to make a permanent move in search of regular game time.

Preston North End and Millwall have both held talks with Marschall’s representatives, and sources close to the situation suggest a deal could be finalised soon, with North End currently seen as frontrunners. Norwich City, who were previously credited with strong interest, are believed to have cooled their pursuit in recent days—opting to focus their attention on other areas of the squad.

PNE boss Ryan Lowe is thought to be a long-time admirer of Marschall, and with the club in need of long-term competition and cover for Freddie Woodman, the Villa prospect fits the profile perfectly. Marschall’s distribution, shot-stopping and composure have drawn plaudits during his time in League One with MK Dons and during pre-season outings with Villa’s senior side.

A source close to the negotiations said: “There’s been steady interest from the Championship, but it’s Preston who’ve made the strongest move. Filip wants regular football, and he knows he’ll get the chance to fight for a starting place at Deepdale. Norwich were keen but have decided to explore alternative targets.”

Marschall’s potential arrival would mark Preston’s third signing of the summer window, as Lowe looks to build on a promising 2024/25 campaign that saw his side narrowly miss out on the play-offs. With an emphasis on younger, hungry talent, the recruitment of a player of Marschall’s calibre aligns with the club’s strategy of combining development with ambition.

Millwall, meanwhile, are not out of the picture yet. The Lions are in the market for a new first-choice keeper after Bartosz Białkowski’s departure and could still mount a late push. However, insiders suggest Preston’s groundwork in the deal gives them the upper hand.

With just weeks remaining before the start of pre-season training, a swift conclusion is expected. Should the move go through, Marschall would become one of the most notable goalkeeping acquisitions in the Championship this summer, and Preston fans will hope he can bring stability and quality between the sticks for seasons to come.

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