Crystal Palace have now joined the race to sign Southampton star Shea Charles, following the news Leeds United have had two bids knocked back.
Everton are also in the picture to sign the 35-cap Northern Ireland international, with the Saints open to a sale, although the Championship side have set a lofty asking price of £30.
However, with the Toffees widely reported to be closing in on Middlesbrough captain Hayden Hackney, signing the Southampton star might not make a great deal of sense.
Palace had been interested in signing Hackney, with signing a new midfielder on the agenda, given that Adam Wharton‘s long-term future at Selhurst Park still up in the air. However, having seemingly missed out, Rennes’ Jordan James and Charles have emerged as alternatives.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
Palace are eager to sign a new midfielder this summer, and with Hackney poised to join the Toffees, Charles could be a solid alternative. At 22-years-old, he is slightly younger than the Middlesbrough star, and he also has a great deal of Championship experience, making 106 second tier appearances. |
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Finances |
However, a deal for the Northern Irishman could be on the expensive side, with the Saints planning to hold out for £30m, which has been prohibitive for rival suitors Leeds, who have had two bids knocked back thus far. |
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Insight |
The central midfielder made 31 league appearances for the Saints last season, during which time he averaged 5.7 recoveries per 90, showcasing his defensive qualities. An average of 2.1 tackles per 90 also ranked him second in the squad. |
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Impact |
Palace have lost some key players to top clubs in recent years, such as Eberechi Eze, Michael Olise and Marc Guehi. Should a player of Charles’ quality arrive, they may be more tempted to cash-in on Wharton for a big fee too. |
Crystal Palace now planning to hijack Leeds for Shea Charles
A report from Football Insider reveals Leeds have already had two bids for Charles knocked back, which means Steve Parish & co are now plotting a last-minute hijack.
Given that European football will be on offer at Selhurst Park next season, the Eagles are optimistic about winning the race for the former Sheffield Wednesday man.
“Outstanding” Shea Charles could be exciting Adam Wharton heir
Wharton failing to make Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad could indicate the midfielder may need to think about leaving Palace, and there are signs the Southampton maestro could be an exciting replacement.
During his time with Sheffield Wednesday, the Palace target was lauded by former manager Danny Rohl, who said: “I’ve seen some really good players at a high level, and what I see at his age – how he’s developed, his open-mindedness and character, his game understanding and intelligence… I’m convinced that he will have a great career in a top division. Lets see… I just have to say again, he’s an outstanding player who gives us something special.”
The Manchester-born midfielder has also proven he has what it takes to perform against Premier League sides, netting the winning goal in Southampton’s 2-1 FA Cup quarter-final triumph against Arsenal last season.
Charles also chipped in with three goals and two assists in 31 Championship outings, with an average of 2.1 tackles per 90 ranking him second in the Southampton squad, which indicates he is a well-rounded midfielder.
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