Preston chairman Derek Shaw has reiterated his desire to keep Alan Irvine despite mounting speculation that West Bromwich are poised to make an official approach for the Deepdale boss.

The highly-rated Irvine, 50, has emerged as the clear favourite to land the vacant post at The Hawthorns as the Baggies seek to replace Tony Mowbray. Mowbray recently quit the club to join Celtic and Irvine has a clause written into his contract that allows him to speak to rival clubs.

Albion received £2million in compensation from Celtic and Preston would also be entitled to a sizeable fee, yet Shaw told the Lancashire Evening Post: "We want Alan to remain as the manager of Preston. Nothing has changed over the weekend, though. We've not had any approach from WBA and we wouldn't welcome it."

"Alan is aware of the speculation, of course. He has been on holiday in Europe, not on Mars. However, that's all it is, speculation, and he is planning for the new season with Preston.

"As everybody is aware, though, Alan has it written into his contract that if there was interest from elsewhere then he could speak to that club and that's how it is."