Crystal Palace are throwing their hat in the ring to sign midfielder Hugo Larsson this summer.
Journalist Florian Plettenberg claims that Larsson is in London to discuss a transfer with Palace and one other club, and Eintracht Frankfurt are demanding €25 million for him.
Palace started with midfielders Daichi Kamada and Adam Wharton in their Premier League opener, which they lost.
The Europa Conference League champions didn’t have any other natural options to call upon later in the game apart from Will Hughes.
Jefferson Lerma and Cheick Doucoure are out of the frame. The Eagles need additions in midfield and have turned to Larsson.
The 22-year-old Swedish international is a very hardworking midfielder. His manager, Dino Toppmoller, is also a fan, saying ‘his talent and mental stability are outstanding‘.
He bagged two goals and two assists in 25 Bundesliga appearances last term.
Larsson would be an exciting addition to Palace’s midfield
He can cover ground, press opponents and contribute at both ends of the pitch, making him the type of energetic presence who could thrive in the intensity of the Premier League.
There is also plenty of room for Larsson to develop. The price is also understandable. However, the Eagles may still need a different type of midfielder alongside him.
Larsson is hardworking and athletic, but Palace could arguably benefit from a classic duel winner.
They need someone who relishes physical battles, wins second balls and provides genuine protection in front of the defence.
Adding both profiles could give Palace manager Pierre Sage the balance he currently lacks. Larsson would certainly be a strong start.
