Town, opening day opponents Fulham and Birmingham City are reported to be amongst the clubs keen on signing Manchester United keeper Sam Johnstone on loan.
Sky Sports claim the trio are considering making moves for the 21-year-old, who impressed while on loan at Doncaster Rovers last season.
Preston-born Johnstone came through the ranks at Old Trafford and has spent time on loan at Oldham, Scunthorpe, Walsall and Yeovil in addition to spending the second half of last season at the Keepmoat Stadium.
Capped by England at U16, U17, U19 and U20 level, Johnstone is contracted to the Red Devils until June 2017 having signed a new deal in January. Despite having made the first-team bench on two occasions, United are said to be willing to send the 6ft 3in tall keeper out on loan again next season.
Town boss Mick McCarthy seems certain to bring in another keeper ahead of the new season with Scott Loach having moved on to Rotherham.
Ideally, he would want a permanent addition to compete with Dean Gerken for the number one shirt but has said he is keen on loaning youngsters from Premier League clubs, expecting them to become available later on during the summer.