BURNLEY defender Clarke Carlisle is understood to be the subject of interest from Preston North End.

Carlisle lost his place in the Clarets side towards the end of last season and Preston, relegated to League One in May, are considering a move for the 31-year-old centre back.

Preston boss Phil Brown is keen to bolster his defence as North End bid to return to the Championship at the first attempt, and fellow Burnley defender Leon Cort spent time on loan at Deepdale last season.