Crystal Palace are currently making their first bid for the ‘total leader’ as they look to beat Premier League rivals Chelsea.
Palace looking to sign new midfielder following departure of Kamata and Wharton
Manager Oliver Glasner was full of praise for the role played by Daichi Kamata and Adam Wharton in Palace’s 1-0 win against Rayo Vallecano in the Europa Conference League final, saying:“I don’t usually like to praise individuals too much, but I have to say that Adam and Daichi (Kamata) played very, very well.
“We knew they were going to press with a plus-one at the back and a minus-one in midfield. It was a matter of how quickly they could find space and exploit it. And in those moments when we had the clear chances, we were great. Jeremy took a great free-kick.”
However, as it stands now, Kamata is scheduled to leave the club this summer when his contract expires, while Wharton is attracting interest from elsewhere, with Manchester United mentioned as a candidate.
Sky Sports News’ James Subbandra admitted that this is an encouraging sign as the Eagles hope to persuade both midfielders to remain at Selhurst Park as they prepare for their Europa League campaign next season, with Kamata also keen to remain in London.
But they also set out to introduce new options in the middle of the park.
Palace offer offer to ‘general leader’ candidate
Crystal Palace have made an offer of 25 million euros (£22 million) for Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado as they aim to beat Premier League rivals Chelsea, according to a report from the Barca manager.
Casado is seen as the “perfect” addition to the midfield given his “high football IQ” and has been put on the table for an initial bid, with an offer expected to be made quickly once formal negotiations begin.
Barça are yet to make an offer for the 22-year-old. He played a sporadic role in the recent La Liga title win, appearing in 24 games, but was often limited to game time as a late substitute.
Marc Casado’s La Liga stats
981 minutes played
0 goals
1 assist
91% pass rate
Win 47 duels
18 tackles
7 interceptions
This is despite receiving praise from former Barcelona defender Rafael Marquez: “His attitude, his personality and his drive to get better every day. He has a very winning and competitive mentality. That’s what gave him the opportunity.”
“He never stops fighting. He’s very competitive. Even when things aren’t going well, he’s very positive. He’s a complete leader.”
Palace’s priority will be to retain midfielders Wharton and Kamata, who have already proven themselves in the Premier League, but Casado, who has one goal and seven assists in 75 appearances for Barça, could be an exciting signing.
Read next: Crystal Palace could lose another key player alongside Kamata
Crystal Palace star plays final game for Selhurst as transfer ‘planned’
The Eagles may be saying goodbye soon.
