Crystal Palace are still interested in signing Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah this summer, according to a report from Sky Sports.Â
The lowdown: Contract saga
With the 23-year-old set to become a free agent at the end of the month as things stand (Transfermarkt), the Gunners are believed to still be in talks with the player regarding a contract extension.
Having made an early switch from Chelsea, the England youth revelation has come through the ranks in north London and spent a short time out on loan at Leeds United during the embryonic stage of his senior career.
With doubts continuing to abound over 23-year-old’s future, the Eagles are among those looking closely at the striker…
The latest: Eagles eyeing Eddie
As per Sky Sports, Crystal Palace and Borussia Monchengladbach remain ‘interested’ in signing Nketiah.
It’s claimed that the England under-21’s all-time top scorer has ‘expressed a desire to play regular first-team football’ as Arsenal attempt to persuade him to remain at the Emirates Stadium.
However, the report added that Nketiah – who was described as ‘tremendous’ by journalist Layth Yousif following a brace and two-goal, 8.60 Sofascore-rated performance against Chelsea in April – is ‘finalising details’ on a new deal with the Gunners.
The verdict: Shrewd move
Still holding a market value of £9m (Transfermarkt), the capture of Nketiah on a free transfer would be a sensational piece of business from Palace, particularly should Christian Benteke leave Selhurst Park this summer.
Previously on the periphery of matters at Arsenal, the talented youngster came to the forefront of matters last season with 10 goals and one assist in 27 senior outings, showing signs of proving his Premier League capabilities.
Would you take Nketiah at Selhurst Park?
Yes, a smart move!
No, can do better!
Despite an impressive campaign from Jean-Philippe Mateta, with only 10-goal duo Odsonne Edouard and Benteke as frontline centre-forward backup options, Eagles boss Patrick Vieira and co should remain attentive to Nketiah’s situation in north London and be prepared to make their move should the time arise.
Indeed, Sky Sports’ claim about the 23-year-old expressing a desire for regular football may suggest that he is open to leaving the Emirates.
In other news, read the latest update on another Palace transfer target
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