[themaclad]

Preston North End are delighted to announce Jeppe Okkels has joined the club on a permanent basis from Utrecht, subject to international clearance.

The 25-year-old winger has signed for an undisclosed fee, putting pen to paper on a three-year deal, with the club holding the option of an additional 12 months.

Jeppe said: “I’m really happy to arrive here. It’s a dream come true to get the chance to play for Preston in the Championship. I look forward to getting started.

“I can’t wait. I will be in the crowd watching the boys in the cup against Sunderland. It’s going to be nice to feel the atmosphere, see the pitch and the stadium. I’m excited for everything here.”


The former Denmark youth international came through the ranks with Silkeborg – the former club of fellow summer recruit Stefán Thórdarson – before moving on to Swedish side Elfsborg.

After making more than 100 appearances there, with a return of 29 goals, Jeppe signed for Utrecht in January 2024.

Now a Preston North End player, Jeppe has taken the No.23 shirt at Deepdale and it's hoped he'll be available to feature for the first time in this weekend’s Sky Bet Championship clash against Swansea City.

Interim manager Mike Marsh said: “We’re delighted that Jeppe’s decided to join us and the deal’s over the line.

“Jeppe’s someone we’ve been chasing for some time. He’s an attack-minded player who can play on both sides.

“He’s got an eye for a goal, capable of making that final pass and he’ll add a bit of pace to the team, too.”