PNE hope Nugent deal doesn't drag
Preston boss Simpson confirmed Nugent will hold talks with two Premier League clubs this week - with Roy Keane's Sunderland confirmed as one of them - as the England striker seeks a move to the top flight.
And Simpson urged the forward to consider his options carefully, insisting he would be happy for Nugent to remain at Deepdale next season.
He told Sky Sports News: "It's in his hands really. We've given him permission to speak to two clubs and we're waiting for a decision from him.
"He's still on holiday. He returns on Monday I think.
"I think he's got a couple of talks to be held. He's got a big decision to make and I hope he makes the right decision.
"If he doesn't go in this period, then I'll look forward to welcoming him back on Thursday and getting on with pre-season."
Sunderland are leading the race after being granted permission to talk to him, but Everton fan Nugent is thought to favour a switch to Goodison Park.
Derby, Blackburn and Birmingham are also keen on the striker and Simpson revealed Preston originally accepted an offer over a month ago, but Nugent's participation in the European Under 21 Championship has held up progress on his transfer.
"It seems incredible," Simpson added. "It was 33 days ago that we accepted an offer for him from a Premier League club and he still hasn't gone, so we're waiting to see.
"I know there's been the disruption of the European Championship, if you can call that a disruption, and he's had a lot of thinking to do.
"It's a big decision to make and I'm sure once he gets back he'll have to make the biggest decision of his career.
"We're in a win-win situation if I'm going to be honest with you because if he doesn't leave, I've got a fantastic striker coming back for next season.
"If he does, the club are going to benefit financially, so we're not pushing him out the door. We'd welcome him back if that was the situation."
(Its D-Day for Nugent now!! I feel that he is gg to b a good signing, gg by the reviews of his recent performance in the U-21 Championship....
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