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Report: Watford and Palace eyeing summer swoop for £17 million Serie A midfielder

Mario Lemina
Mario Lemina Juventus (Reuters)
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Crystal Palace and Watford are both keen on Juventus’ midfield dynamo.

Mario Lemina JuventusMario Lemina in action for Juventus

Reports emanating from Italy today suggest that both the Eagles and Hornets are targeting an ambitious move for Juventus midfielder Mario Lemina in the summer, according to Italian media outlet CalcioMercato.

The 23-year-old Gabon international moved to the Turin giants on a permanent deal in the summer of 2016, having spent the previous campaign on loan with Massimiliano Allegri’s side, and he has gone on to make 16 appearances in all competitions for the Bianconeri this term.

He has proven to be fairly ineffective, however, chalking up just one assist and no goals during those outings.

Because of his underwhelming displays, Juve are believed to be considering allowing him to leave the club in the summer, and CalcioMercato claim that Palace and Watford have both expressed an interest in the six-capped Gabon international.

Although the Italian media outlet suggest that both clubs would have to be prepared to part ways with at least £17 million, should they wish to be successful in their pursuit of Lemina.

He would be a fantastic addition to both sides, however, with his high energy levels and intelligent ball dispersion being the keys to his game.

And he would undoubtedly be an upgrade on what both Sam Allardyce and Walter Mazzarri currently have available to them.

For either Premier League side to have any chance whatsoever of luring the 23-year-old to England, however, they must ensure that they retain their top flight status.

And with the Eagles currently second from bottom, and the Hornets in 13th spot in the table, their Premier League safety is far from a foregone conclusion.

Mario LeminaMario Lemina during his time at Marseille