Terms agreed as Crystal Palace close in on former Arsenal star as next manager
Patrick Vieira has reached an agreement to become the next Crystal Palace manager, according to multiple reports.
Palace have been on the lookout for a new manager since announcing Roy Hodgson would be leaving at the end of his contract. It has not been an easy search so far, with deals for Nuno Espirito Santo and Lucien Favre falling through. But now they seem to be close to finding a good alternative candidate.
According to various sources, including The Athletic and Sky Sports, Vieira has reached a verbal agreement to take over at Selhurst Park.
The former Arsenal midfielder has been carving out a career in coaching since retiring in 2011. He initially spent time with his last club, Manchester City, in various roles, before moving to sister club New York City for his first taste of management.
After two years there, he returned to his native France to take charge of Nice. But after his departure in December 2020, he has been out of work.
Now, he is on the verge of a return to management and a first taste of such a role in the Premier League. An agreement in principle is in place with Palace and he could even sign a contract today.
A visa application has been submitted and if successful, Vieira could oversee the first day of pre-season training on Monday.
Palace have been close to appointing managers before in recent weeks, so won’t be taking anything for granted. But there seems to be genuine optimism this time that this one will happen.
A huge rebuild is required at Palace, who have also released several players. Vieira will have his work cut out for him, but will be hoping to provide the excitement the club have been craving.
Palace pursuing midfielder
There are several areas of the Palace squad that need strengthening, including the territory Vieira roamed in his own playing days.
To that end, the Eagles have been linked with a midfielder currently impressing at Euro 2020.
However, they would face competition from two other Premier League sides…
READ MORE: Palace, Southampton joined by promoted side in pursuit of BVB midfielder
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