Crystal Palace now hold strong interest in signing a £30m defender, who’s also a target for Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, according to a report.
Palace looking to strengthen with Europe on the horizon
Not only did Palace win the first major piece of silverware in their history courtesy of the 1-0 FA Cup final victory against Manchester City, but they also secured qualification for the 2025-26 Europa League, which could be quite the adventure for supporters.
This week, however, it was revealed the Eagles may not get to play in the competition, given their multi-club ownership model, although John Textor is willing to sell his shares in the club on the cheap to allow them to compete.
A meeting has been held to discuss the south Londoners’ involvement, but UEFA are yet to make a decision, meaning it is still very much up in the air whether Oliver Glasner’s side will be allowed to play in the prestigious competition.
It is thought that a decision will be made in around a week, which means the hierarchy must continue planning for the summer transfer window in the meantime, and they have now set their sights on a Bayern Munich target.
Indeed, according to a report from L’Equipe (via Get French Football News), Crystal Palace now hold strong interest in signing Burnley defender Maxime Esteve, having identified him as a priority target for the summer.
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Palace have now joined the race for a defender, who is “expected” to leave his current club this summer.
However, there could be competition for Esteve’s signature, with Everton stepping up their interest in recent days, while the Bundesliga champions are also thought to be keen, although not to the same degree as Palace.
Having played a key role in Burnley’s promotion to the Premier League, the Clarets should be in a strong position to command a good fee for the centre-back, and previous reports have suggested they could hold out for around £30m.
“Phenomenon” Esteve could be ideal Guehi replacement
This summer will be the Eagles’ last chance to cash-in on their captain, with his contract set to expire next June, meaning Glasner could be faced with the momentous task of finding a replacement for the Englishman.
Of course, no Palace fan will want to see Guehi leave, but there are indications the Frenchman could be an ideal replacement, given the role he played in Burnley’s promotion last season, featuring in all 46 Championship games as his side shipped just 16 goals.
The 23-year-old is also at a good age to be a long-term success at Selhurst Park, and he has been praised by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, who described the defender as a “true athletic phenomenon with some really good ball skills.”
Should they be allowed to compete in Europe, Crystal Palace will be in a good position to attract some top players this summer, and there are plenty of signs Esteve is in that category.
