PRESTON face a battle to keep hold of skipper Sean Gregan as West Brom increase pressure on the Deepdale outfit to let their star midfielder go.

Just days after letting Steve Robinson depart for Luton Town after a disappointing spell at Deepdale, North End are bracing themselves for a fresh offer for Gregan.

Newly promoted West Brom are chasing Gregan and Manchester United midfielder Ronnie Wallwork, plus Fulham defender Zat Knight, as they prepare to prove they have the stength in depth to survive in the big league.

West Brom's bid for Gregan is expected to top £1.5million.

And, ironically, Gregan could find himself standing in for former team-mate Michael Appleton, who quit Deepdale two seasons ago although he is out until Christmas with knee ligament damage.

Gregan has been key to Preston's success in recent years, playing major roles in promotion success and the last two camapigns for play-off places.

He has been previously linked with Everton -- now home to former North End boss David Moyes -- but Baggies boss Gary Megson is a big admirer of Guisborough-born 28-year-old.

Gregan, who bagged 13 yellow cards last season, moved to Deepdale in 1996 from Darlington for £350,000.

A very popular player, new Preston manager Craig Brown needs to decide whether he would rather have £1.5million to splash about or the city's own captain fantastic.