Crystal Palace ready to make £7m bid to secure deal for “explosive” forward.
Crystal Palace hold a strong interest in an “explosive” forward, and they are now ready to submit a £7m offer to complete a deal, according to a report.
Palace eyeing new signings amid Europa League uncertainty
Palace secured qualification for the Europa League for the first time, courtesy of their FA Cup final triumph over Manchester City, but they are now at risk of being kicked out of the competition, due to issues surrounding multi-club ownership.
John Textor has since admitted that he is trying to sell his majority stake in the club, in order to allow the Eagles to compete in Europe next season, saying: “We are trying to help separate it and sell. We wanted to buy but it’s become clear that isn’t going to happen and so we’re trying to help Palace and the situation with UEFA. That’s about all I can say.”
Textor also adds that a “good meeting” was held with UEFA, which suggests there is hope that Oliver Glasner’s side will take part in the competition, but there is still a great deal of uncertainty surrounding the situation.
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The lack of clarity could also affect summer transfer plans, as Selhurst Park will not be as attractive a destination without European football on offer, but the south Londoners continue to run the rule over potential new signings.
According to a report from Africa Foot (via Sport Witness), Crystal Palace hold a strong interest in Watford winger Kwadwo Baah, who spent four years at Selhurst Park as a youth player from 2013 to 2017.
Such is Palace’s level of interest, they are now ready to submit a €8m (£7m) offer to complete a deal for Baah, although it is unclear whether Watford would accept a bid in that region, or hold out for a higher amount.
The winger’s versatility is of particular appeal to the Eagles, having regularly featured in both attack and right wing-back throughout the 2024-25 campaign.
“Explosive” Baah could be ready for Premier League move
The German’s time at Selhurst Park as a youth player didn’t work out, but he has managed to work his way up the football pyramid, spending time with Rochdale and Burton Albion in League One before making a name for himself with Watford.
The 2024-25 campaign was the 22-year-old’s most impressive to date, collecting four goals and three assists in the Championship, and displaying his versatility by featuring in a range of different attacking positions, including striker.
Former manager Tom Cleverley was also impressed by the forward, saying: “He is so skilful, so explosive, so powerful and direct. He’s been excellent for us this season.”
As such, Baah could now be ready to test himself in the Premier League, and a move to Selhurst Park would surely be of great appeal, particularly if UEFA sanction Glasner’s side playing in Europe.
Crystal Palace considering re-signing three ex-players to meet strict Premier League rules is an interesting strategy. To understand this better, let’s break down the Premier League rules that might be relevant to such a scenario.
Premier League Rules
The Premier League has rules governing player registration, squad composition, and financial fair play. Some key aspects include:
– *Squad Registration*: Clubs must register a squad of players for the Premier League season, with specific rules governing player eligibility.
– *Financial Fair Play*: Clubs must adhere to financial fair play regulations, ensuring they do not spend more than they earn.
– *Youth Development Rules*: Clubs are encouraged to develop young players, with rules governing the registration and development of academy players.
Potential Ex-Players for Re-Signing
Given the rules, Crystal Palace might consider re-signing ex-players who:
– *Meet Squad Registration Requirements*: Players who fit the Premier League’s eligibility criteria and can contribute to the team’s squad.
– *Have Previous Experience*: Players familiar with the team and Premier League can provide valuable insight and stability.
Some potential ex-players Crystal Palace might consider re-signing include:
– *James McArthur*: A midfielder who previously played for Crystal Palace and could bring experience to the team.
– *Martin Kelly*: A defender who has played for Crystal Palace in the past and could provide defensive expertise.
– *Kevin Phillips*: A striker who has played for Crystal Palace previously and could offer attacking options.
Benefits of Re-Signing Ex-Players
Re-signing ex-players can benefit Crystal Palace in several ways:
– *Familiarity*: Players who know the team and Premier League can adapt quickly and contribute to the squad.
– *Experience*: Ex-players with Premier League experience can provide valuable insight and leadership.
– *Cost-Effective*: Re-signing ex-players might be more cost-effective than signing new players, considering transfer fees and agent costs.
By re-signing ex-players, Crystal Palace can meet Premier League rules while strengthening their squad with experienced players. However, the club would need to consider factors like player form, fitness, and current squad dynamics when making such decisions.
MORE EX- PLAYER’S & READ MORE BELOW 👇
1. Wilfried Zaha: A dynamic and skilled winger, Zaha’s return to Crystal Palace could bring a much-needed boost to the team’s attacking prowess.
2. Aaron Wan-Bissaka: A talented right-back, Wan-Bissaka’s re-signing would strengthen Crystal Palace’s defensive lineup.
3. Jefferson Lerma: A skilled and versatile midfielder, Lerma’s return would provide depth and creativity to the team’s midfield.
Premier League Rule:
– Homegrown Player Rule: The Premier League’s squad registration rules require clubs to have a minimum number of homegrown players in their squads. Re-signing former players like Zaha, who developed through Crystal Palace’s academy, could help the club meet this requirement.
Benefits of Re-Signings:
– Squad Strength: Re-signing experienced players would enhance Crystal Palace’s squad composition, ensuring a strong and competitive team.
– Team Chemistry: The return of familiar players would foster a sense of team chemistry, allowing the squad to gel quickly and perform cohesively.
– Compliance with Regulations: By re-signing players who meet specific criteria, Crystal Palace would ensure compliance with Premier League regulations, avoiding potential penalties.
By re-signing these former players, Crystal Palace would be taking a proactive approach to strengthening their team and ensuring a successful season.
