'Tony Pulis reveals two clauses in Conor Ripley’s Preston move'

'Tony Pulis reveals two clauses in Conor Ripley’s Preston move'

The 25-year-old goalkeeper, who was on loan at Accrington Stanley prior to his move, made a permanent move to Preston last week.

Middlesbrough FC manager Tony Pulis has revealed that Boro will receive a huge financial incentive if Ripley’s move to Preston turns out to be successful.

Having joined Boro a decade ago in 2009, the 25-year-old goalkeeper, despite being considered as a bright prospect, only made two senior appearances for the club

Despite Ripley’s reputation, Boro were able to let him go due to the fine performances of Darren Randolph this season – with Dimi Konstantopoulos being a reliable backup as well.

Speaking on the reasons for his departure, Pulis though rates Ripley highly, admitted the goalkeeper needed a permanent move to settle down in his career.

"He’s got the potential to be a top keeper," said Boro boss Tony Pulis. "What we’ve done is we’ve given him the chance."

"We’re well covered"

"He’s 25, he’s not 19, he’s 25. He now needs to go and put roots down and prove he’s going to be a top keeper."

As to whether Boro sold him on the cheap, Pulis revealed that Boro has got a "massive sell-on" clause on the player.

"We’re well covered. We’ve got a massive sell-on, and the first option to buy him back. It’s a great deal for the kid, not just the football club."

"That’s what people have to understand, if you’re a decent football club you look after your people as well and that’s what we’ve done."

Ripley is the 2nd player to leave Boro this month, as Martin Braithwaite has already joined Spanish side Leganes on loan.

Another Boro player who could say goodbye to his teammates is Ashley Fletcher, with a number of Championship clubs interested in the striker. Hull boss Nigel Adkins has gone as far as to claim that although he's keen to acquire Fletcher’s services, they are struggling to meet the demands of Boro.

Moreover, while Ipswich have expressed their failure to lure Rudy Gestede and Grant Leadbitter to the Portman Road, Boro will allow the duo to leave should a suitable offer comes this month.

"It’s not a case of only allowing players to leave if there are incomings," said Pulis. "If things happen and it’s right for the football club, and if Steve thinks it’s right, we’ll do it."

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