Could reported China interest in captain be a problem for Crystal Palace?

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Scott Dann has been a loyal servant to Crystal Palace, but according to reports, may be considering a new challenge in China.

Crystal Palace fans have been very used to seeing their side being led out by the colossal Scott Dann.

The central-defender is as good a battler as any captain in the Premier League, but the popular Selhurst man has been linked with a move to China this summer, according to the Daily Mail.

Crystal Palace’s Scott Dann celebrates scoring their second goal

For Dann, 30, it might be the perfect time personally to try a fresh challenge, such as joining Beijing Guoan.

Remember, Dann had to pick the dressing room up when the team was beaten 2-1 by Manchester United in the FA Cup final in 2016, while he won’t want to repeat Palace’s struggles in the Premier League last season under a new boss with no experience of the English top flight.

A problem for de Boer?
Dann’s exit would not be what Frank de Boer had envisaged. He is planning a new look-team, but would surely hope for his captain to remain at the club. After all, Dann is only half way through a long-term contract, as reported by the Daily Mail.

It’s an early test for Frank de Boer. If Scott Dann leaves, there will be a captain’s role to fill.

Frank de Boer hold the Crystal Palace shirt up as he becomes the club’s new manager

De Boer can look at things positively
Stability will remain at Crystal Palace through Damien Delaney, 35, who signed a one-year extension this summer, according to Read Crystal Palace. James Tompkins, 28, also remains having signed from West Ham a year ago. Both could be considered captain material if they play.

A big money exit would also give Frank de Boer more room for transfers. In any case, central defence is an area where he has been actively trying to recruit.

Top of the list is Mamadou Sakho, with the Daily Mirror reporting that the deal could still happen. There has also been a strong link with Ajax fullback Kenny Tete, according to the Daily Telegraph, with the Dutchman also able to fill in in central areas.