Copa America 2024 is about to kickstart, with nations across the north and south of America set to compete for the ultimate prize.
16 teams enter the tournament, with four groups of four nations vying for a place in the upcoming knockout rounds.
The challenge of a quarter-final, semi-final and final awaits those who wish to get their hands on the trophy at the end of the competition.
Among those aiming for silverware are some Crystal Palace stars, with Chris Richards, Daniel Munoz and Jefferson Lerma all ready for action.
While Palace will no doubt be cheering on their players at the tournament, there’s also a chance to scout some options to bolster the squad in the transfer market.
Plenty of talent will be on display during Copa America 2024, with the possibility of some stars making a move to Selhurst Park.
Jhon Arias – Colombia
One star of Copa America 2024 who has been linked with a transfer to Crystal Palace is Jhon Arias.
The 26-year-old has been a key player for Fluminense in recent seasons, playing most predominantly on the flanks.
Arias is incredibly versatile, featuring as a winger, central midfielder and a centre-forward during his career so far.
Since his international debut in 2022, the Colombian forward has made 15 appearances with three goals to his name.
Copa America could prove the stage to show the world, and perhaps Crystal Palace, exactly what he is capable of.
Yaser Asprilla – Colombia
Continuing with the theme of Colombian targets, attacking midfielder Yaser Asprilla may be one to look at in the future.
The 20-year-old plays in the Championship for Watford and has plenty of promise, with six goals and seven assists in 28 starts.
Asprilla has been compared to Jude Bellingham by Watford sporting director Gianluca Nani as he told CalcioMercato: “A new Bellingham could be Asprilla, in Watford.
“He is an attacking midfielder who plays the two phases, he is not as physical as Bellingham, but he has very quick readings and an exceptional touch on the ball. For now, I can say that he is followed by many clubs.”
With one year remaining on his deal, the youngster may well be a bargain over the summer if he does turn out anything like the England star.
Liam Millar – Canada
A different star to keep an eye on could be Canada winger Liam Millar, following on from a season spent on loan at Preston.
The 24-year-old is contracted to FC Basel in Switzerland but was a former academy star from Premier League side Liverpool.
Millar bagged ten goal involvements over a difficult campaign with Preston but showed elements of his quality.
As a right-footed left winger, he could be an option for several clubs as he enters the final year of his deal at Basel, especially if he impresses at Copa America.
Valentin Carboni – Argentina
Another promising young star on the list of squads at Copa America is Argentinian playmaker Valentin Carboni.
The 19-year-old is part of the Inter Milan setup, with plenty of praise leading to a Champions League appearance on top of Serie A displays.
A loan move to AC Monza didn’t quite work out, but with his age and it being just a first spell in senior football, there’s plenty to come.
While it is unlikely that Carboni will start for the current Copa America champions, the attacking midfielder could announce himself on the big stage with some impact from the bench.
With Crystal Palace making an emphasis on landing young talent for the future, Carboni may be worth keeping an eye on.
Ismael Kone – Canada
Yet another option in the ranks at Canada and Watford, Ismael Kone is preparing for a huge summer in Copa America.
At just 22 years old, the midfielder has been a mainstay for the Hornets in the Championship as well as his national team.
Standing over six feet tall in height, Kone is able to mix his physical presence with an ability to control the game in both a deeper and more advanced role.
There’s plenty of potential to tap into, which the Watford star may put on full display during the competition.
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