Ali McCann Joins Preston North End

Ali has joined the English Championship side for a significant seven-figure transfer fee which could spiral into being St Johnstone's record transfer fee received.

With attractive and achievable add-ons in place, the final fee is anticipated to break the £1.75million Blackburn Rovers paid for Callum Davidson in 1998.

Ali is a product of the highly regarded Saints youth system and was an integral part of the Cup Double success last season.

Several clubs from both sides of the border wanted to sign Ali and many bids were rejected. But the player expressed a desire to move to England.

Saints Chairman, Steve Brown, said: "We tried very hard to resist all of the bids for Ali.
"But Preston's offer is a huge sum and one we couldn't turn down. In time, it is likely to become the club's record transfer fee received. 

"In all situations, we also have to take the wishes of the player into account and Ali told us he wanted to play in England.

"Reluctantly, we have allowed Ali to move to Preston and we wish him all the very best as he has been a great player for the Football Club and a first-class individual."