Crystal Palace are looking active in the transfer market once again, since the brief stagnant period following the signing of Oscar Mingueza on a free transfer.
Mingueza’s arrival has certainly added some much-needed experience to Pierre Sage’s squad before the start of their Europa League campaign.
The Spaniard made 11 appearances in the Europa League last season with Celta Vigo, adding to his experience in the Champions League with Barcelona.
Mingueza also is known for his versatility, as he has the ability to play on both sides of the pitch as a full-back. Now, it seems the Eagles have the opportunity to sign yet another versatile full-back to their roster.
Crystal Palace close in on World Cup player
According to a recent report from Africafoot, Crystal Palace are in pole position to sign Krepin Diatta, who is currently a free agent following the expiry of his contract with Ligue 1 side Monaco. A source told the outlet:
Currently, it is Crystal Palace that is in pole position in the discussions. They are ready to pay the salary claimed by the player (2.5 million euros per year, Editor’s note). The discussions are very advanced and the player would also like to play in the English Premier League.
Diatta also featured extensively for Senegal in the recently concluded World Cup. They got knocked out by Belgium in the round of 32 of the tournament.
The 27-year-old initially started off as a defensive full-back, but over the years, the Senegalese international has honed his skills to play more advanced positions down the right-hand side.
Will Krepin Diatta’s signing benefit Palace?
Nathaniel Clyne’s departure has also opened up space for the Eagles to make further additions to their squad as they now look to compete with Bayer Leverkusen for the transfer of Diatta.
Signing a player of Diatta’s qualities on a free transfer certainly looks to be a steal given some of the recent deals in the Premier League.
Even if the Palace are able to sign Diatta this summer, the player’s injury problems might be a worry for the south London club going into the new season.
His exploits in European competitions are certainly a major plus point in Palace’s quest for the wing-back. The Eagles are now eager to mark their first Europa League appearance with glory.
The new manager is believed to have taken notice of Diatta during his time at Lens and Lyon, as Palace close in on the signing of the former Monaco man this summer.
