There were rumours towards the end of last season that Neil would return to Manchester City to arrange a loan deal for a goalkeeper after the situation looked bleak at times last season.
Rudd held onto the jersey but it was clear he made some errors throughout the season. Maxwell was clearly out of favour and was sent out on loan with his future being unclear.
Crowe was signed at the start of last season but after one cup appearance he was swiftly banished and Ripley made his debut towards the end of the season but as yet is untested. Matthew Hudson was out on loan at Bury and never featured.
If Preston did sign a keeper on loan it may solve one problem which has consistently dogged them over the past couple of seasons. It would leave a big question mark over the present goalkeepers at the club.