“Parish and Freedman are already talking” about the summer move
Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish and sporting director Dougie Freedman are already engaged in talks over potential strikers they could welcome to Selhurst Park this summer, according to Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge.
The Eagles entered the international break sitting 12 point lead from the dreaded drop zone, which means they are almost certain to retain their Premier League status and the key decision-makers behind the scenes can already prepare for top-flight football next season.
What’s the latest news regarding Palace’s forwards?
Patrick Vieira was appointed as Palace manager after an extended search last July, replacing the deceased Roy Hodgson.
The Frenchman then made a host of signings and among them was Odsonne Edouard, who cost up to £18.5 million last summer’s window deadline.
After a blistering start in which he grabbed a brace as a late substitute on his debut, Edouard found the back of the net only another four times.
In the final hours of the January window, the Eagles split £9 million to make Jean-Philippe Mateta’s loan from Mainz permanent and also sealed the arrival of Derby County teenager Luke Plange.
Mateta has enjoyed more playing time since the start of the year, but still only has five goals to show for his efforts, while Christian Benteke failed to get his name on the scoresheet since november.
Fabrizio Romano CONFIRMS that Man United are close to appointing Erik ten Hag! Learn more about The football terrace
What did Michael Bridge say about the situation?
Bridge believes Palace boss Vieira will have made securing the services of a prolific frontman a priority ahead of his second season at the helm.
The Sky Sports reporter understands Parish and Freedman are already working around the clock to identify potential candidates to become the Eagles’ first-choice striker.
Bridge believes the south Londoners’ middle position means they can already start preparing for the next term, despite still having nine Premier League games to go.
Asked if Palace are looking to sign a striker this summer, Bridge told GIVEMESPORT: “Steve Parish and Dougie Freeman are already talking about it because they are not going to fall, are they? »
Which Palace strikers has he been linked with?
Vieira is clearly a fan of Arsenal leader Eddie Nketiah, having first try to sign him before dropping for Edouard due to the Gunners’ £20m valuation.
However, Nketiah £45,000 per week The Emirates Stadium contract is due to expire at the end of the season, meaning he could be a profitable option for the Eagles.
According to an Italian media CalciomercatoPalace will also face Arsenal and Atletico Madrid for RB Leipzig striker Andre Silva.