‘Real potential’: Manager deals Everton and Crystal Palace blow in pursuits of £25m star

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Christophe Galtier has dealt Everton and Crystal Palace blows in their pursuits of Kasper Dolberg by confirming to Nice-Matin that he wants to keep the striker at Nice this summer.

Dolberg was one of Denmark’s stars of Euro 2020 as Kasper Hjulmand’s side reached the semi-final. The 23-year-old struck three goals, including his nation’s vital second over the Czech Republic in the quarter-final to set up a Wembley date with England.

The 30-cap international also netted six goals and provided two assists in 25 Ligue 1 outings for Nice last season. Everton and Crystal Palace are among a clutch of Premier League sides now keen to see Dolberg move to England.

Reports by Calciomercato claim Everton are rivalling Leicester for Dolberg, who Tottenham Hotspur also admire, SampNews24 note. The Sun also claim Patrick Vieira would like Crystal Palace to raid his former club and sign Dolberg, but would face a £25m asking price.

The Daily Star also noted in January that Southampton, West Ham and Leeds were all keen. But Galtier has dealt Dolberg’s Premier League suitors a blow, by stating his desires to keep the striker at Nice.

“His good performances [at Euro 2020] are important for him and the club,” Galtier said. “He has been through a lot here. He has real potential, moves very well. We’ll see that he is coming out of the Ajax mould. I want to keep him.”

Galtier deals Everton and Crystal Palace blows over Dolberg transfer hopes

Galtier has dealt Everton, Crystal Palace and their Premier League rivals a blow by effectively stating Dolberg will not leave Nice this summer. It will surely now take an offer simply too good to refuse for the Ligue 1 side to sell him.

It is hardly surprising that Premier League clubs were attracted to the idea of signing Dolberg. The forward is very smart with his use of the ball, and his movement can pull defences apart.

England struggled to keep a lid on Dolberg throughout their Euro 2020 encounter. While the Nice gem was one of the stars of the show against the Czech Republic. His sharp attacking instincts were more than the Czechs could handle, linked play well and scored precisely.