The Eagles are hoping to swoop in for the Championship midfielder.
Dale Stephens celebrates scoring for Brighton
Crystal Palace have reportedly joined Burnley in the race to sign Brighton midfielder Dale Stephens, according to the Daily Star.
The Star reports that Sean Dyche has earmarked the 27-year-old as a potential replacement for Joey Barton who left for Rangers earlier in the summer after inspiring the Clarets to promotion ahead of the Seagulls.
Burnley have made three bids for the midfielder
That interest has seen Burnley make three bids for the former Charlton man, however the Star reports that every offer has been turned down by the Championship outfit.
With Burnley seemingly struggling to get a deal across the line, it appears that Palace are hoping to jump ahead in the race for his signature.
Crystal Palace have now joined the race
Stephens’ form last season more than suggested that he would have plenty to offer at the highest level. He scored seven times and contributed five assists to inspire Chris Hughton’s side to third in the table.
And his value to Brighton’s team was perhaps emphasised during their play-off semi-final tie with Sheffield Wednesday. The midfielder was suspended for the games having been sent off on the final day of the regular season against Middlesbrough, and in his absence, the Owls, perhaps surprisingly, came out on top.
And Hughton may well feel that his side’s hopes of going one better this time around largely depend on whether they can keep hold of Stephens beyond this summer.
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