Huddersfield midfielder Lewis O’Brien
Crystal Palace are in the mix to pip Leeds United to the signing of midfielder Lewis O’Brien, according to TEAMtalk.
The Lowdown: O’Brien’s impressive campaign
O’Brien, described as ‘sensational’ by teammate Jonathan Hogg, was an ever-present figure for Huddersfield Town last season.
Primarily a central midfielder, the 23-year-old made 50 appearances in all competitions, turning out in seven different positions ranging from a defensive midfielder to a centre-forward.
O’Brien helped The Terriers to the Championship playoff final at Wembley, but Carlos Corberan’s side fell at the final hurdle. Now, it looks as if O’Brien could still make a move to the Premier League regardless.
The Latest: Palace in the mix
According to TEAMtalk journalist Graeme Bailey, O’Brien is destined to leave Huddersfield this summer and reportedly has a releasee clause in the region of £12m.
Leeds remain the big admirers of the midfielder, however, Palace have been name-checked as another side in the mix to secure O’Brien’s signature.
The Verdict: Needed?
Palace look fairly short of midfield options heading into Patrick Vieira’s second season in charge, so it shouldn’t come as a shock to see Steve Parish and Dougie Freedman eyeing possible additions in that area. The Eagles currently have five defensive and central midfielders on the books, two of which are out of contract at the end of June.
How many signings do Palace need this summer?
0-2
3-5
6+
A replacement for Conor Gallagher may also be needed if the club can’t bring him back to Selhurst Park, so going after a player like O’Brien could be another wise move from a Championship club after deals for Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise.
In other news: Palace and Vieira eyeing ambitious move for rapid defender.
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