Trusted transfer guru names two Prem sides in battle for Arsenal man
West Ham and Crystal Palace look set to do battle in what could be one of the most intriguing transfer sagas of the summer.
Both clubs are searching for a new striker in the market. West Ham let go of Sebastien Haller in January and are yet to replace their record signing. Crystal Palace, meanwhile, are facing a mass exodus from the club. A total of 11 players are out of contract and most look like they will be moving on.
In their search for fresh attacking impetus, both have focused in on an Arsenal forward who has been put up for sale by the Gunners.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the Eagles and the Hammers remain among a host of clubs interested in signing Eddie Nketiah.
The well-respected source of transfer news tweeted that both sides are in contention. Bayer Leverkusen and another unnamed Premier League club are also in the hunt.
Palace were reported to have entered the picture last month. This was before they learned of Arsenal’s stance on Nketiah.
The north London club have since placed the 22-year-old on the transfer list after succumbing to his wish of leaving the Emirates.
West Ham and Leverkusen have long been linked with the England under-21 record goalscorer. They appear to be the leading contenders.
The one remaining unnamed team could possibly be Watford. The Hornets were named as an interested party following their promotion back to the top-flight at the first time of asking.
Palace could hold a trump card
Palace seem to be behind in the race as per recent reports. However, they may have put themselves in pole position after reports touted them as being interested over the weekend.
They announced the appointment of Patrick Vieira as their new manager on Sunday. The former Arsenal midfielder has signed a three-year contract.
The Frenchman made 279 appearances for the Gunners between 1996 and 2005. He is widely regarded as a club legend.
His links with the club could allow him to beat David Moyes in the race to Nketiah’s signature.
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