Crystal Palace ace Jason Puncheon has rejected Middlesbrough but is reportedly a target for Premier League side Newcastle United too.
Jason Puncheon had been a regular at Crystal Palace ever since their promotion back to the Premier League in 2013. Until last season that is.
Roy Hodgson’s arrival coincided with the experienced midfielder losing his usual place in the Palace XI and, by the time he suffered a season-ending injury in January, he had made just six Premier League starts in 2017/18.
And The Sun is now reporting that Puncheon’s five year stay at Selhurst Park could come to an end on transfer deadline day. Newcastle United, who have been looking for a number 10 all summer, are understood to be interested.
32-year-old Puncheon would not be the most high profile signing Newcastle could make but with funds famously tight, Rafa Benitez has his hands somewhat tied. The former Southampton and Blackpool midfielder would provide creativity and plenty of experience in attack.
Interestingly, Newcastle’s local rivals Middlesbrough are also interested in Puncheon. But The Guardian (live blog, 9.35am) are reporting that he has rejected the chance to link up with former Palace boss Tony Pulis in the Championship.
So this opens the door for Newcastle to add Puncheon to their squad ahead of the new season.
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