Dougie Freedman has been left excited by a transfer opportunity offered to Crystal Palace – but there is now a problem.
The Eagles have been given the chance to sign a vastly experienced Premier League player for free this summer as his contract expires imminently – although Oliver Glasner‘s side are not the only ones to have been contacted.
So, what is the situation at Crystal Palace that has left Dougie Freedman excited? Let’s take a look…
Dougie Freedman left excited by Crystal Palace transfer opportunity
A story from London World now claims that the Glaswegian was left excited after Crystal Palace were offered the chance to sign Leicester No.25 Wilfred Ndidi for nothing this summer.
The Nigeria international – who Leicester signed from Genk for £15m in January 2017 – becomes a free agent on July 1st.
London World believe Freedman reacted enthusiastically after being told Crystal Palace could sign Ndidi for nothing this summer, and immediately informed Glasner about the opportunity.
However, Lyon – owned by John Textor, who is now looking to sell his 45% stake in Crystal Palace – have also been offered the Nigerian, and are said to be frontrunners to secure his signature.
The French giants impressively managed to qualify for the UEFA Europa League by finishing sixth in Ligue 1 – despite a woeful start to the 2023/24 campaign – and are now keen to add experience to the squad.
Ndidi – aged 27 – boasts 192 Premier League appearances to his name, along with experience in the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League and also the UEFA Conference League.
Oliver Glasner has midfield alternatives
While it would be nice to sign a player of Ndidi’s calibre on a free transfer, Glasner has alternatives as we attempt to improve the central midfield department.
There is said to be strong interest in Trabzonspor No.6 Batista Mendy – with one Turkish news outlet even going as far as describing the deal as done.
Elsewhere, sources in Belgium believe Crystal Palace have been ‘charmed’ by Club Brugge No.15 Raphael Onyedika – who also plays in defensive midfield.
Additionally – while he is more of an attacking midfielder – there is also said to be interest in Norwich City No.17 Gabriel Sara.
Therefore, Glasner and Freedman seem to have a deep shortlist of options, in case Ndidi does move elsewhere.
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