Siddiqui Sherif in action. (Image via Media Foot)
Crystal Palace’s plans to rebuild their attack have suffered a setback after Angers forward Siddiqui Sherif opted to join Fenerbahce rather than move to Selhurst Park.
The move was first reported by Florian Plettenberg and shows Palace are increasingly in a hurry to sign a new centre-forward as the transfer deadline approaches.
Sherif has emerged as a strong candidate to strengthen Palace’s attacking options, with head coach Oliver Glasner keen to secure a reliable replacement for Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Palace are understood to have made significant progress with the Angers striker, having agreed personal terms.
However, the Premier League side lost out on this deal to Fenerbahce, who moved decisively to finalize the deal.
Fenerbahce win race to sign Siddiqui Sherif
A verbal agreement has reportedly been reached between Angers and Fenerbahce, with Sherif initially set to join Istanbul on loan with an obligation to buy.
The structure of the deal appeared to be attractive to both the French club and the player, offering him regular football and a key role in a team competing for domestic honors and European qualification.
For Palace, the missed opportunity is a blow, especially given the timing. With Mateta’s departure looming, the Eagles are in a race against time to secure a new striker before the close of business on Monday.
Mateta’s departure means Palace will be forced to sign a new attacker
Mateta has made it clear he is looking for a new challenge and is widely expected to complete a move to AC Milan.
His potential departure leaves Palace lacking proven options through midfield, increasing the importance of bringing in a replacement who can adapt quickly to the demands of the Premier League.
All eyes are now firmly on Norwegian international Jorgen Strand Larsen, who currently plays for Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Palace are confident of signing him despite strong competition from other teams in the Premier League.
It would be a shame to be without Siddiqui Sherif, but Crystal Palace appear determined to act quickly and decisively.
With Mateta’s departure looming and time running out, the Eagles are expected to push hard to sign Strand Larsen in the final stages of the transfer window.
Leeds and Crystal Palace offer offers for 12-goal forward this month
