Back in January, Crystal Palace came very close to signing Donny van de Beek on loan from Manchester United, according to The Athletic.
The Eagles tried to bring the 24-year-old to Selhurst Park, but eventually, he decided to join Everton instead.
Now, that has turned out to be a foolish decision by the Netherlands international.
Donny van de Beek should’ve joined Crystal Palace
In our view, Van de Beek is probably kicking himself right now.
The £40m man could’ve been playing at Wembley in an FA Cup Semi-Final this Sunday, while learning from one of the greatest midfielders of his generation in Patrick Vieira.
Instead, Van de Beek could now add a relegation to his CV playing under another of the best midfielders of his generation, Frank Lampard.
Of course, Merseyside is closer to Manchester than south London, which could’ve played a part in his decision.
However, it has been a truly miserable time for Van de Beek at Goodison Park, where he has only been involved in one win.
Crystal Palace should try to sign Donny van de Beek again
In our view, the south Londoners should make another move for the former Ajax maestro this summer – if they are unable to sign Conor Gallagher.
According to Goal, Chelsea are intent on using the 22-year-old next season, and have quoted a £50m fee to those keen to sign him.
Therefore, Vieira may have to look elsewhere, and Van de Beek would be a good option in that respect as he and Gallagher are similar players.
As detailed by The Athletic, the Dutchman is a tireless worker, who can combine quality on the ball with aggressive tackling.
Remind you of anyone? There are, of course, some differences, but the key elements of Gallagher’s game can certainly be found in Van de Beek.
If Chelsea stand firm, Crystal Palace should definitely get in touch with Manchester United again.
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