Udinese shot-stopper Orestis Karnezis has been tipped to move to the Premier League with Newcastle United and Crystal Palace reportedly keen.
Despite the fact that Newcastle United are hardly short of goalkeepers, that has not stopped speculation suggesting Rafael Benitez wants a new number one in the summer.
According to TuttoUdinese, The Magpies are ready to challenge Crystal Palace for Greek international shot-stopper Orestis Karnezis this summer.
The 31-year-old, who has been a virtual ever-present for Serie A outfit Udinese since arriving in 2014, could be available for £8.5 million and would surely represent an astute addition for any side in need of a safe pair of hands.
After all, Karnezis has been one of the most consistent goalkeepers in Italy over the last few seasons and has been frequently linked with a number of major clubs on the continent, such as Napoli, Roma and Benfica.
However, it appears that he may be on his way to the Premier League in the summer – although Crystal Palace could certainly benefit from his arrival more than Newcastle.
While Benitez can call upon Karl Darlow and Rob Elliot, plus returning loanees Tim Krul and Freddie Woodman, Palace manager Sam Allardyce could only dream of such options.
Wayne Hennessey is a capable shot-stopper on his day but a potentially costly blunder is never far away. Meanwhile, four-time Ligue 1 goalkeeper of the year Steve Mandanda (below) has not had the impact expected of him when arriving on a free from Marseille last summer.
The France international has not featured for The Eagles since November thanks to a knee injury and has been heavily linked with a return to the Stade Velodrome.
Therefore, Palace should start writing out their cheque before Newcastle make a move for Karnezis.
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