PNE snap up Basel striker

The towering forward has signed a deal to join the shot-shy First Division outfit until the end of the season.

At the conclusion of that spell, Preston have teed up a deal to make Koumantarakis' stay at Deepdale permanent.

Koumantarakis admitted his move from the Swiss champions to England happened swiftly and fulfilled a wish for the 28-year-old.

"I first heard of the interest a few days ago and it all happened very quickly for me," Koumantarakis told the club's official website.

"I have wanted to play in the English Leagues for a long time but Basel was a good station for me and we were doing well which was why I prolonged my stay."

Preston will not require a work permit for the gangly hit-man as he possesses a Greek passport but they need international clearance to hand him his first team bow against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

Bolton and Rosenborg had also been keen on Koumantarakis and Lilywhites boss Craig Brown was delighted to land his man.

"Not only is he big, but he has great skill and is excellent in the air as well as having a good left foot," said Brown. "And, he's a goalscorer which is what we have been looking for. He is good on the deck and will bring the midfielders into play.

"We are very keen for him to make his debut on Saturday and if the international clearance can be sorted then hopefully that will be the case."