Overview
- Multiple outlets reported on Tuesday and Wednesday that Devine has completed a permanent transfer to Preston after undergoing a medical, with the fee reported at about £6 million.
- Devine, 21, earned the move after a strong 2025–26 loan at Preston in which he scored eight goals and provided six assists in the Championship.
- Tottenham were willing to sell because Devine has one year left on his contract and new midfield signings including Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali have limited his pathway into their first team.
- Celtic pursued Devine with veteran coach Martin O’Neill pushing for an offer but did not submit a bid that secured the player, a failure that drew mocking reactions from rival Rangers supporters online.
- Some details remain unconfirmed because clubs have not issued full statements; Preston’s earlier purchase option had lapsed after the loan and the permanent deal now raises questions about Celtic’s next midfield targets, including Miguel Chaiwa.