theglobalsun – Preston North End have strengthened their attacking options after signing Swedish striker Jusef Erabi on a season-long loan from Belgian club Genk. The agreement also includes an option for the Championship side to make the transfer permanent at the end of the campaign if the forward impresses during his stay.
The 23-year-old becomes Preston’s third signing of the summer transfer window as manager Paul Heckingbottom continues to reinforce his squad ahead of the new Championship season. Erabi arrives with experience from both Swedish and Belgian football and is expected to add pace, strength, and versatility to the club’s attack.
Jusef Erabi Joins Preston North End on Loan From Genk
Erabi moved to Genk from Swedish side Hammarby in September 2025 after establishing himself as one of the country’s promising young forwards. Less than a year later, he will continue his development in England after completing a temporary move to Preston North End.
The season-long agreement provides Preston with the opportunity to evaluate the striker before deciding whether to activate the permanent transfer option. The arrangement also allows Erabi to gain regular first-team football in the Championship.
After completing the move, Erabi spoke positively about the club and explained why he was eager to join Preston. The Sweden-born striker, who is of Afghan descent. Said conversations with the coaching staff and his impression of the club convinced him to complete the transfer quickly.
“I’ve been speaking to the staff and the people around the club and it looks amazing,” Erabi told the club’s official website.
“When I saw the club and how they play, I was impressed. I had a good feeling and I really wanted to get it done as fast as I could.”
The forward now prepares for his first experience in English football. Preston hope the move will help accelerate his development while providing additional attacking depth throughout the season.
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Paul Heckingbottom Highlights Striker’s All-Round Qualities
Manager Paul Heckingbottom welcomed Erabi as another important addition to the squad during the summer transfer window. The Preston boss believes the striker possesses the technical ability and physical attributes required to adapt successfully to Championship football.
Heckingbottom described Erabi as a complete forward capable of contributing in several areas of the game. He praised the striker’s movement, strength, and ability to influence attacking play.
“Jusef is a good technical all-round striker,” Heckingbottom said. “He’s physically really good and likes to make runs in behind. But is also strong enough to hold the ball up.”
The manager also emphasized Preston’s commitment to supporting Erabi throughout his loan spell. He believes providing the right environment will help the young striker demonstrate his full potential.
“We will work really hard to give him the best platform to go out and show what he can do,” Heckingbottom added.
Erabi’s versatility gives Preston another option across the attacking line. His combination of pace, technical ability, and physical presence should provide additional tactical flexibility during a demanding Championship campaign.
The signing reflects Preston’s continued efforts to strengthen key areas before the start of the season. If Erabi adapts successfully to English football and delivers consistent performances. The club has the opportunity to secure his services permanently once the loan agreement expires.
