Preston defender Josh Earl is attracting big Premier League interest.

The Mirror says Liverpool and Everton are battling for the signature of highly-rated Preston defender Earl.

The towering left-back, 19, who is 6ft 5in, broke into the North End side this season and was rewarded with a new contract.

However, his progress has not gone unnoticed by several Premier League sides, with the Merseyside rivals among those showing an interest in taking him.

Everton boss Sam Allardyce is on the lookout for Leighton Baines' long-term replacement while Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has also found it a problem position this season.