Crystal Palace are battling newly-promoted Watford and Brentford for the signature of impressive Falkenbergs midfielder Matthew Garbett, according to The Sun.
The teenager has caught the attention of numerous Premier League scouts with his efforts for New Zealand at the Olympics. Danny Hay unleashed the 19-year-old against Romania on Wednesday as his side secured the nation’s first-ever quarter-final appearance.
Garbett already had a host of admirers after moving to Europe at 17 to join Swedish side Falkenbergs. He also signed a first professional contract with the Falcon Alkoholfri Arena club after rejecting widespread interest, after shining at the U17 World Cup in 2019.
Now, The Sun note he is one of the most sought-after teenagers in Europe and could be Premier League-bound. Crystal Palace, Watford and Brentford are all considering raiding Falkenbergs to sign their rising star Garbett this summer.
But neither side has yet made a formal approach to discuss terms with the Superettan outfit or his agent. While Garbett will likely wait until after the Olympics to consider a future away from the Swedish second-tier.
Vieira eyes big Crystal Palace coup in Garbett
Garbett featured sporadically during his first year at Falkenbergs with 16 outings across all competitions. He only started twice, however, but has already bettered his record in 2021. Over 10 appearances from 17 potential games, Crystal Palace target Garbett started five.
Patrick Vieira could now pull off a big coup by seeing that Crystal Palace sign Garbett from Falkenbergs. The Eagles would do well to acquire one of Europe’s most promising teenage prospects, as they reduce the average age of their squad.
Michael Olise, 19, Marc Guehi, 21 and Joachim Anderson, 25, have already arrived at Selhurst Park this summer. And the work to replace the raft of experienced players let go is unlikely to stop at Garbett.
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