Crystal Palace Want to Sign ‘Quality’ Star to Replace Marc Guehi
Crystal Palace are among a host of European clubs eyeing a summer move for Charleroi defender Cheick Keita, according to AfricaFoot.
The Eagles, alongside Marseille, Brest, Lens and Genk, have reportedly shown ‘real interest’ in Keita ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
Palace are anticipating Marc Guehi’s possible departure at the end of the campaign and are eager to secure a replacement early, with Keita now emerging as a potential option.
The 21-year-old is a right-footed defender who can play both centrally and out wide, though he is primarily suited to a centre-back role.
Palace Eyeing Move for Cheick Keita
Among European clubs interested
According to AfricaFoot, Keita’s ‘quality’ performances have attracted interest from several European clubs, with some already submitting offers for the promising 21-year-old.
Palace may need to step up their pursuit if they wish to land Keita ahead of their continental rivals, as multiple Ligue 1 sides are closely monitoring his progress in Belgium.
Keita, who joined Charleroi from Reims last summer, has made 15 appearances in all competitions this season, amassing nearly 1,100 minutes of action.
The 21-year-old is under contract in Belgium until June 2027, with the club holding an option for a one-year extension.
Crystal Palace face a summer battle to retain some of their key players, with Guehi’s exit now a strong possibility.
The England international will enter the final 12 months of his Selhurst Park contract in July and remains on the radar of several Premier League clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur.
Spurs expressed late interest in Guehi during the January transfer window and reportedly had a bid in the region of £70m rejected, as Palace were reluctant to part ways with the 24-year-old mid-season.
Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner is looking for the ‘right mix’ in midfield ahead of Tuesday’s clash with Aston Villa.
Glasner revealed after Palace’s win over Fulham that Lerma had struggled with a hamstring problem in the week leading up to the game, but the Colombian is available to start against Unai Emery’s side.
“He is fine, everything is okay, and he is ready to start.
“Also, Will Hughes had some issues with his knee during the game, but he is fine as well.”
