Crystal Palace have completed a £17m move for their latest defensive addition, acting swiftly in the transfer market after their chase for Manuel Akanji ultimately fell through.
Akanji had been the club’s priority signing earlier in the window, but with talks breaking down, Palace wasted no time in turning to an alternative option. The switch highlights the determination of Roy Hodgson’s side to reinforce their back line and build the squad depth needed to handle the demands of a gruelling Premier League campaign.
Insiders reveal that the player had long been monitored by Palace, though a serious approach only materialised once it became clear that Akanji was out of reach. Valued at £17m, the deal is seen both as a show of ambition and a shrewd investment in a defender expected to play a major role at Selhurst Park.
Given the early signs of fragility at the back, Hodgson is likely to welcome the signing as he works to combine defensive solidity with Palace’s attacking flair. Fans, meanwhile, will be eager to see how quickly the new man settles into English football, especially with the added spotlight of being the club’s high-profile fallback option.
While further arrivals could still be on the horizon, this move reinforces Palace’s reputation as a side prepared to act decisively, adapt quickly, and push forward with conviction in pursuit of their ambitions.
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