[themaclad]

Preston North End are delighted to announce Lewis Dobbin has joined the club on loan from Aston Villa.

The forward, who joined Villa in a multi-million-pound move in June 2024, will spend the remainder of the season at Deepdale.

The 22-year-old has previous experience out on loan in the EFL, having spent time with West Brom and Norwich City during the 2024/25 season.

Lewis said: “I’m buzzing. I can’t wait to get playing in front of the fans and get going. I’m really excited for the season ahead.

“I think the call with the manager really sold it to me. It’s a great platform to be able to perform and I think it's got all the fundamentals I'll need to improve as a player. I think it really stood out to me in that sense and I think I can just really grow on and off the pitch here.

“I want to be effective in as many positions as possible on the pitch. I wouldn't say I've got one out-and-out position. I just want to get on the pitch and excite people.”

The young attacker, who can play anywhere along the front line, came through the ranks with Everton and went on to make 20 senior appearances for the Toffees.

Lewis spent the 2022/23 season in League One on loan with Derby County, prior to two spells in the Championship last term.

The former England youth international will now spend the remainder of the season on loan at Deepdale and will be available to feature in Saturday’s home match against Ipswich Town.

Manager Paul Heckingbottom said: “I’m really pleased we’ve got Lewis over the line, especially ahead of tomorrow’s match.

“We’ve been watching him for a while and I’ve been really impressed by the way he plays, and it’s clear to me from the conversations we’ve had that he’s really excited about coming to us.

“He’s got great pedigree and he’ll add another attacking threat to our team.”