As Arsenal continue to pursue Eberechi Eze, Crystal Palace have reportedly set their sights on an impressive La Liga winger who has a release clause worth just £26m.
Crystal Palace learn Europa League fate
To say that Crystal Palace have so far endured a summer to forget would be quite the understatement. The Eagles finished last season as shock FA Cup winners and were ready for the Europa League. And then UEFA stepped in.
News swiftly broke that Palace were at risk of losing their Europa League place courtesy of UEFA's multi-club ownership rule and John Textor's involvement in both the South London club and French side Lyon. There was some brief hope when the latter were relegated to Ligue 2 amid financial problems, but after they won their appeal to stay in the top flight, Palace had their fate confirmed and are now relegated to the Europa Conference League.
Responding to the news, club chairman Steve Parish told reporters: "Obviously we're devastated. We're devastated for, most importantly, the supporters. I think the supporters of all clubs should be devastated for us because this is the dream.
Chelsea's Tyrique George celebrates scoring their third goal with Josh Acheampong Related
[Approach made: Crystal Palace make enquiry to sign "quick" £35m defender](https://www.footballfancast.com/approach-made-crystal-palace-submit-enquiry-josh-acheampong/ "Approach made: Crystal Palace make enquiry to sign "quick" £35m defender")
The Eagles are in contact over a deal for a centre-back.
"You win a cup, actually win something for the first time in your history. Somebody said to me it's like winning the lottery, going to the counter and you don't get the prize.
"I'm devastated for the players, for the fans, for the staff. It's a bad day for football. I think most right-minded football fans will see what a terrible injustice this is for the football club, one that I dearly hope somebody can remedy because I do believe that nobody in football wants to see this."
Palace's summer could be about to get even worse if Arsenal get their wish too. The Gunners are still reportedly chasing a deal to sign Eze and could leave those at Selhurst Park with no choice but to find a replacement.
Crystal Palace eyeing Viktor Tsygankov
As reported by Diari de Girona and relayed by Sport Witness, Crystal Palace are now eyeing a move to sign Viktor Tsygankov from Girona this summer. The winger will reportedly be allowed to leave Girona ahead of next season and has a release clause worth just €30m (£26m) - handing Palace an opportunity to potentially complete a swift move.
League stats 24/25 (via FBref) Tsygankov Eze
Minutes 1,913 2,588
Goals 2 8
Assists 5 8
Key Passes 33 58
Whether the Ukraine winger is good enough to replace Eze is the big question. Based on last season, there would remain doubt over Tsygankov's ability to step into Eze's role and deliver a similar output, having scored just two La Liga goals.
Viktor Tsygankov for Ukraine
At his best, however, the 27-year-old has been praised alongside his Ukraine teammates as "talented" and "superb" by scout Jacek Kulig. It's also worth noting that he has played at the very top level in the Champions League and would bring that European experience to Selhurst Park.
The Eagles certainly have a lot to think about, but Tsygankov may be one worth taking a look at if Eze does depart ahead of next season.