Preston North End are delighted to confirm James Pradic has signed a new deal which will see him stay at Deepdale until at least 2026.
The 18-year-old goalkeeper first signed a professional contract last summer and, with that deal set to expire this summer, the goalkeeper has now penned new terms to extend his stay.
James, who moved up north to join PNE in 2021 after leaving Charlton Athletic, has been training with the first team for the previous 18 months, as well as picking up experience out on loan.
James said: “I’m very happy. I knew coming into the season I had one year left so to have another two years I’m very delighted.
“This is my second full season with the first team. Especially the goalkeepers – me, Dai [Cornell], Freddie [Woodman], Polly [Mike Pollitt], we’ve all got a cracking relationship and we get on really well, and all my teammates really, so I’m really enjoying it.
“I’d love to play in the first team here, of course. I think my journey will be unique in itself; it won’t be the same as other players.
“I’ve just got to bide my time and hopefully my time will come and I’ll be starting in this team.”
The teenager played a key role in the success of the U19s during the league and cup double-winning season of 2021/22, before getting his opportunity with the first team.
James – a Wales youth international – has also gained experience of senior football away from Deepdale on loan with Bamber Bridge, featuring regularly in the Northern Premier League.
Manager Ryan Lowe said: “I’m really pleased to see James stay on for another two years.
“His attitude around the place and in training is fantastic, and we’ve seen him really progress since he joined us at Euxton, and we hope to see that continue in the coming years.”
Goalkeeper coach Mike Pollitt added: “He’s progressed really well over the past few months and he really deserves this new contract.
“He’s learned off us all here by being with us daily. Being a professional goalkeeper, he’s coming in early every morning and working with us every day.
“He’s had plenty of gametime at Bamber Bridge, getting that experience of playing men’s football, which at 18 can be difficult.
“He’s being exposed to the physical challenges which the Academy doesn’t give you.
“We’re delighted to tie him down. It’s the reward for what he’s done so far but he’s got to keep progressing now moving forwards.”