Glasner may want more depth in the midfieldGlasner may want more depth in the midfield
Glasner may want more depth in the midfield | Getty Images
Crystal Palace have reportedly identified a new midfield target in the Championship.
Crystal Palace reportedly like the look of a Championship midfielder as they look to add depth to the middle of the park. The Eagles have enjoyed a solid campaign this season, starting poorly but quickly putting any fears of relegation in the rear-view mirror.
Oliver Glasner will be hoping to build on the improvements next season, but there is always a concern for Palace that one of their big talents will be sold, with Steve Parish being open about the fact the club needs to accept huge offers for a player or two each summers if they arrive as they look to stay financially sound.
The good news is that Palace have proven themselves excellent recruiters over the years, regularly identifying top talents on the cheap and ultimately selling many of them on for big fees. The latest talent Palace have reportedly identified is Middlesbrough’s defensive midfielder Hayden Hackney, who has been key to Boro’s playoff push this season, making 35 league appearances so far.
Palace have been stung when Adam Wharton has struggled with injury at times this season, and so the move could make sure they have adequate cover in the pivot role, especially given there have been claims of interest in Wharton’s services.
Boro will not want to sell, but a sizable offer is likely to convince them otherwise, especially if they are not promoted this season. Boro boss Michael Carrick has previously told the Teesside Gazette of interest in Hackney: “You obviously want to keep hold of your best players. Hayden is a shining light for the club in that he has come through the academy and epitomises what the academy is all about, so credit to all the coaches and staff who have played a part in getting him to where he is today.
“I’m not taking any credit for Hayden Hackney winning the Young Player of the Year award. He’s a talented lad and more importantly he is so down to earth and humble. He’s willing to listen and he’s a very fast learner, so anything you tell him he takes on board straight away.
“Credit to him for the consistency he has shown because it is not easy for such a young player in their first year of professional football, but he has managed to do that. There will be many more challenges ahead of him in his career and he will certainly have a bright future if he continues to do the right things. I’m really looking forward to seeing how he develops.”
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