The Liverpool right-back also began his career at Crystal Palace.
John Salako has advised Aaron Wan-Bissaka to follow the example set by one of his Crystal Palace predecessors, Nathaniel Clyne. Like Wan-Bissaka, Clyne is a product of the Palace youth system, although he now plays for Bournemouth on loan from Liverpool.
The 27-year-old initially joined Southampton upon leaving Selhurst Park in the summer of 2012 – by which point he had already played well over 100 games at senior level.
And speaking to Talksport on Wednesday lunchtime Salako suggested that Wan-Bissaka, who has played just 39, is not yet ready to move to a bigger club – despite a series of impressive displays for the Eagles.
“I can remember talking to Nathaniel. He was level-headed,” recalled the former Crystal Palace midfielder and first-team coach. “You know, you say to your youngsters, play your 90/100 games, learn your job, learn your trade. And then he went to Southampton, he moved to Liverpool, he’s played for England. Unfortunately, he’s (had) injuries.
“But Bissaka hasn’t played. He’s come on leaps and bounds and if he moves he’s going to be under massive pressure. Do you remember when Wilfried (Zaha) went to (Manchester) United? He was too young, too early, didn’t settle in.
“He’s got that massive pressure week-in-week-out and he has to step up another level or two (first).”
A number of top clubs – albeit not Liverpool – have been credited with an interest in Wan-Bissaka.
And asked how much the 21-year-old’s sale is likely to fetch Crystal Palace, Salako added: “I would say Bissaka, probably £40 million. I mean, Luke Shaw came in at United for £30 million, so £35-40 million for a fledgeling, for a young lad who’s only had one season that’d be big money.
“For Wilfried, probably more £50-60 (million).”
Salako also revealed he has heard about a potential change of ownership in south London.
“I’ve heard the Americans do want out,” he said. “And that (the Palace part-owner) Steve Parish would then look to buy a smaller club, so it’ll be interesting to see what happens there.”
Will Wan-Bissaka one day surpass the Liverpool right-back’s achievements?
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