Crystal Palace join Loic Openda race
Everton and Leeds also keen
Juventus prepared to sell
Crystal Palace have reportedly entered the race with Everton and Leeds United to sign Juventus striker Lois Openda. The Belgian seems to be up for sale despite making a permanent move to the Serie A club
According to Italian outlet TuttoJuve, Palace are “pushing” for Openda, and Pierre Sage likes the player’s profile. The newly appointed Eagles boss is particularly impressed by his technical abilities.
Openda joined Juve permanently in a €40m deal in the summer after spending last season on loan. He fell out of favour under Luciano Spalletti, scoring just one goal in two league games.
Palace want Openda
Juve bought the striker due to an obligation-to-buy clause inserted into their loan agreement with RB Leipzig. Palace are on alert and are said to have “initiated preliminary discussions to assess the financial feasibility of the deal.”
Openda was heralded during his time at Leipzig, and many expected him to be a huge hit. He has endured a difficult spell in Turin but could get his career back on track at Selhurst Park.
The 26-year-old posted 41 goals and 18 assists in 93 games across competitions for Leipzig. His nosedive last season cost him a place in Belgium’s World Cup squad.
Why Palace are interested
A new striker could be on the cards depending on Jean-Philippe Mateta’s situation. The French forward’s situation is uncertain, and he’s been linked with clubs such as Manchester United and AC Milan.
If Mateta were to leave, a replacement would surely be eyed, and Openda is one of several names linked. His Juve teammate Jonathan David is another option.
Palace have plans to sign four new players this summer as part of a rebuild for Sage. He has already held discussions regarding recruitment and might well be the one pushing for Openda.