Crystal Palace now hold a strong interest in signing a “talented” goal-scoring defender, and they could be set to battle a fellow UEFA Conference League club for his signature, according to a report.
Palace demoted to Conference League after unsuccessful appeal
It should be a time of celebration for Palace, having recently won the Community Shield for the first time, but UEFA’s recent verdict has certainly dampened the mood somewhat, and a strong statement has been issued in response.
“It appears that certain clubs, organisations and individuals have a unique privilege and power.
“This growing and unhealthy influence has shattered the hopes and dreams of Crystal Palace supporters, and does not bode well for aspirational teams all over Europe competing to progress when rules and sanctions are unevenly applied in the most flagrant way.”
Not only is being denied the right to compete in the Europa League a blow for the supporters, who would have been dreaming about trips to some of Europe’s biggest clubs, but it could also have an impact on the Eagles’ summer transfer plans.
Playing in the more prestigious Europa League is a more attractive proposition for potential new signings, and Oliver Glasner’s side may need to bring in a few new arrivals before the end of the month, given the doubts over Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi’s futures.
Should Eze and their captain move on, it will be vital for Crystal Palace to bring in a new attacking midfielder and centre-back, but they are also keen to bolster their options at right-back.
That is according to a report from Italy, which states Crystal Palace now hold strong interest in signing Cagliari defender Nadir Zortea, but there may be competition for his signature, with Fiorentina also keen.
Should the Italian club successfully navigate their Conference League play-off match, they could be one of the Eagles’ opponents next season, and they are also set to do battle over the signature of Zortea, with a deal potentially set to amount to at least €10m (£9m).
"Talented" Zortea could be solid Munoz alternative
Daniel Munoz was a vital player for Glasner last season, with the right-back proving himself as a real threat on the front foot by picking up four goals and six assists in the Premier League.
As Palace are set to embark on a European campaign, they will need to strengthen their squad depth, and they may want to bring in a new right-back in a similar mould to Munoz, with the Cagliari defender fitting the bill.
Much like the 29-year-old, Zortea is impressive going forward, and displayed a keen eye for goal in the Serie A last season, finding the back of the net six times in 35 outings.
Having also been lauded as “talented” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, the Italian could be the ideal option to come in and provide competition for Munoz’s starting spot.