Preston North End set to sign Man Utd's Matthew James

Preston North End are set to sign Manchester United central midfielder Matthew James, 18, on an emergency loan until the end of the season.

James will seal the move when the transfer window opens on Tuesday.

Preston boss Darren Ferguson told BBC Radio Lancashire: "He's played a lot of reserve games and is ready to take that next step.

"The fact he's played with Danny Welbeck will help the pair of them - it'll certainly help Danny."

Rochdale-born James was an integral part of United's reserve team last term and scored a stunning goal at Deepdale in their Lancashire Senior Cup semi-final win over Preston.

Ferguson added: "He's a lad with a lot of potential being at the club he's at.

"There were a couple of other Championship clubs interested, but we've got in there quick.

"He's a good player with good energies, he's a decent size for a young lad and a good passer of the ball."

James is expected go straight into the squad for the game against Sheffield United on Tuesday.

From BBC