Crystal Palace are expected to sign at least one centre back and possibly two before the start of the season, so should they move for an experienced defender who has an uncertain future at Everton?
Phil Jagielka, 34, is coming to the close of his illustrious Premier League years. Jagielka has a fight to retain his position in Ronald Koeman’s team, now that Everton has signed Michael Keane, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Jagielka told SkySports in May: “I have an uncertain future.” Everton’s captain knows he is going to have to be at his best to keep his place.
However, he also said: “I have got at least one more year on my contract and I feel as though I have got a lot more football in me.”
Everton’s Phil Jagielka
If Jagielka decides he wants a move, Sheffield United currently lead the odds at 4-1 to sign the defender, according to SkyBet. But even Sheffield United’s manager, Chris Wilder told Sky Sports: “I’m sure he’ll think he’s still got life at the top. He’s a Premier League player and captained his country.”
Indeed, there should be other offers though from Premier League clubs to capture an English international who has superb leadership qualities and goes about his business with no fuss.
While Crystal Palace get priced out of admiring Mamadou Sakho, according to the Evening Standard. On the other half of Merseyside, they would do well to consider the merits of Jagielka.
Crystal Palace need a cool head and a central defender that throws himself at everything. Jagielka is a motivator and a leader by example. Last season he made two last-man tackles, scored three goals and put in 208 tackles in 27 appearances in the Premier League.
Everton’s Phil Jagielka warms up before the match
Crystal Palace would be signing a player that has a good temperament, even if he was sent off once last season – for two yellow cards against Arsenal.
Jagielka a signing that doesn’t come with much risk. But does Frank de Boer really want to sign a veteran?
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