Crystal Palace could now finally sign a long-term target as Southampton sit 20th in the Premier League.
What’s the story?
Well, the player in question is Armel Bella-Kotchap.
The Germany international was monitored by Crystal Palace back in July 2020 as the south Londoners targeted young players to freshen up their squad – according to The Athletic.
While the Eagles were successful in their attempts to sign other gems such as Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi, Bella-Kotchap slipped through the net as Southampton sealed an £8.6m deal back in June 2022.
Now – however – Crystal Palace could finally get their hands on the Paris-born defender.
90min believe Bella-Kotchap is likely to leave Southampton if the Saints are relegated, a fate that seems almost certain as they sit 20th in the Premier League with just seven games remaining.
The 21-year-old has impressed for Southampton in his debut campaign in the Premier League, despite the club’s struggles as a whole.
Bella-Kotchap has made 21 Premier League appearances in total this season, standing out with his speed across the ground and ability in possession.
Crystal Palace should attempt double raid on Southampton
In our view, Bella-Kotchap is not the only player Crystal Palace should try to take from Southampton if they go down.
The south Londoners are in desperate need of a new right-back, so we feel a move for Kyle Walker-Peters would make a lot of sense.
According to the Daily Mail, Crystal Palace wanted to sign the England international from Tottenham back in 2019 before he joined Southampton, and he has since developed into one of the Premier League’s standout players in that position.
As Joel Ward and Nathaniel Clyne – aged 33 and 32 respectively – struggle to nail down a starting role, Walker-Peters has to be a leading target for Crystal Palace this summer along with Bella-Kotchap.
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