MONEYBAGS Preston North End are threatening to wreck Burnley's summer spending plans, writes TONY DEWHURST.

The Clarets reluctantly gave up the chase for Northern Ireland defender Colin Murdock when he agreed a £100,000 move to Deepdale earlier today.

And despite strong denials from Gary Peters - the Preston boss was due to have further talks with Gary Parkinson this weekend.

I can also reveal that at least TWO other Burnley targets were subsequently offered a bigger financial incentive by Preston.

And that highlights the formidable task facing the Burnley manager with Lancashire neighbours Wigan Athletic and Preston able to offer bigger wages in a bid to to attract new blood.

Clarets chief Adrian Heath said: "I am working very hard to bring the right players to Burnley and I hope to have some news next week.

"Top of the list is the Premiership international player. He is the sort of quality I want to bring here.

"It is a difficult time of the year to seal anything permanent because most players will leave it as long as possible before they make a firm decision.

"They are all keeping their options open. I've spoken to a few clubs and had positive responses from all them. "Ideally, I want to bring in at least five new players."

Heath, though, could not hide his frustration at losing out in the chase for Murdoch who played several reserve team games for the Clarets.

He said: "There is nothing I can do about Colin's decision and the same applies to Gary Parkinson if Preston offer him a three-year contract.

"I understand Gary is talking to another club besides Preston and we will have to wait and see what develops."

Peters added: "Anyone who has seen him (Murdoch) play at reserve team level knows he has bags of class.

"But you'd expect that after the upbringing he's had at a great club like Manchester United.

"He's big, but he's also a very good footballer. And, at 21. He's a great investment for Preston."

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