Crystal Palace are eyeing an ambitious move for Bayern Munich defender Chris Richards, according to The Telegraph.

The Lowdown: Richards profiled

The 22-year-old, who has been hailed as an 'athletic freak' by former USA national team scout Thomas Rongen, can play anywhere across the back four.

Primarily a centre-back, Richards is valued by Transfermarkt at a career-high £6.75m. He has spent time out on loan with Hoffenheim after joining Bayern Munich from FC Dallas in 2018.

Richards has only made 10 senior appearances for Bayern and is under contract until 2025, but it looks as if Patrick Vieira has his eyes on a move for the pacey USA international.

The Latest: Palace interest in Richards

The Telegraph’s Mike McGrath shared a Palace transfer update on Monday afternoon, revealing that Lens midfielder Cheick Doucoure is the club’s priority this summer.

McGrath added that Richards has also been looked at and is an ambitious target, with a move a possibility.

The Verdict: One to watch…

It looks as if Doucoure and Sam Johnstone are primary targets for Palace early in the transfer window, although Richards is also one to keep an eye on following the update from the reliable reporter.

You can see why Vieira would want to bolster his centre-back ranks after relying heavily on Marc Guehi and Joachim Andersen during his first season at Selhurst Park.

James Tomkins and Jaroslaw Jack are out of contract at the end of June, while Nathan Ferguson has struggled to stay fit, so signing Richards could be a shrewd move.

In other news: 'Interested...' - Transfer insider drops big Palace claim involving 'brilliant' EPL supremo.