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Crystal Palace goalkeeper Vicente Guaita insists he remains happy at Selhurst Park, but would not think twice about moving back to a former club if the opportunity presented itself.

The Spanish goalkeeper has been a reliable performer for the Eagles since signing in July 2018. Arriving on a free-transfer from Getafe, Guaita has rarely let the Eagles down in his 122 appearances over the last four seasons. Indeed, many might argue that the 35-year-old custodian has enjoyed his best ever season at Selhurst Park.

The 2021 Crystal Palace Player of the Year is contracted to the south-east London club until summer 2023. That deal – signed in January 2021 – also gives both parties the chance to extend that stay by a further year.

And were he to stay for the duration, there are few supporters who would argue for an alternative to be signed.

However, Guaita himself, while admitting his satisfaction with life in the capital, says he would welcome a future return to Valencia.

The keeper began his career with the LaLiga outfit. First emerging through their B Team, Guaita went on to make 114 appearances over six seasons at the Mestalla.

“I have one year left on my contract and an optional one at Palace,” he told AS. “I’m very comfortable in the Premier League, it’s amazing how you live football here.

“I have less and less years left and I don’t know if I will have those years to be able to return to Spain. Speaking homestly, I would like to return to Valencia. I think I could have played for many years at Valencia. Being a Valencianista, leaving the club. How can I not want to return to Valencia?”

Despite his wishes, Palace are unlikely to welcome any approaches for Guaita this summer.

Guaita excited for Wembley outing

Guaita and Palace sadly missed the chance to reach the FA Cup final on Sunday, having been beaten 2-0 by Chelsea.

The keeper was in the Palace squad, but rested on the bench as Vieira opted to start with Jack Butland.

Nonetheless, Guaita was excited to get the Wembley experience, having only been there to watch a boxing match before.

Speaking ahead of the match, Guaita added: “It’s the first time I’ll play there and it’s always exciting. I was as a fan watching a boxing match between Joshua and Povetkin. They put more than 90,000 spectators there.”

Speaking after the game, Eagles boss Vieira named a pivotal reason for the big gap that existed between Palace and conquerors Chelsea.

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