Crystal Palace are now in the picture to sign a "Rolls-Royce" defender, who is attracting widespread interest from the Premier League.
Palace eyeing new centre-back amid managerial uncertainty
Oliver Glasner is set to leave Palace at the end of the campaign, although it is unclear where the Austrian will end up, with former striker Clinton Morrison suggesting he may have talked himself out of contention for some top jobs.
When asked whether Glasner will require another 'stepping stone' job, Morrison said: “Yeah, he is now. He’s going to have to have a good end to the season and hopefully bring Palace the Europa Conference League.
“His stock was so high, but all the stuff that’s happened and the things that he’s said in the media - other clubs will see that and think, do we really want someone like that at our football club?
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner
“But the job he’s done at Palace has been brilliant. But sometimes you’re only judged on the last few things you’ve done. He might get a job in Europe for sure. But at the moment, I think how they finish the season - and if they can win the Europa Conference League - his stock rises again and there’ll be a lot of clubs looking to tempt Glasner. For sure.”
Although the 51-year-old may have burned some bridges with the fans this season, he will be difficult to replace, having led the Eagles to the first major trophy in their history last season, and an exciting end to the campaign could be in store in the UEFA Conference League.
However, the Eagles certainly have plenty of potential replacements on the shortlist, with Liam Rosenior, Sean Dyche, Andoni Iraola and Thomas Frank all being identified as targets.
The recruitment team are also making plans for the summer transfer window, and a British defender is now on the shortlist.
"Rolls-Royce" defender now being targeted by Palace
According to a report from Football Insider, Crystal Palace have now burst into the race to sign Hearts defender Alfie Osborne, who is out of contract this summer, which means he may be available for just £160k in compensation.
Palace recently sent scouts to watch the Scottish youngster in action against Ireland U19s, with delegations from Arsenal and Chelsea also in attendance.
Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish and former player Mark Bright in the stands Related
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The Eagles are on the hunt for their Glasner replacement.
Aston Villa have also opened talks about a deal for the 17-year-old, who has attracted widespread interest, and it is no surprise, having received high praise from Hearts boss Derek McInnes.
McInnes said: "I've not seen enough of him as a midfielder. I can see why people think that might be where he might play because he's got nice feet and all the rest of it. I would rather we didn't shoe-horn him in anywhere else. He's a Rolls-Royce, he's a good size and he should be able to use that size. He's a good player and we're fortunate to have him."
Having already collected five caps for Scotland U19s, and made 47 appearances for Hearts' B team, Osborne is clearly thought of in high regard by club and country, but rival interest from the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea could pose a problem for Palace.