As you may have heard, Crystal Palace are interested in signing Boubakary Soumare from Leicester before the September 1st deadline.
The Frenchman – who Leicester signed from Lille for £17m just over 12 months ago – struggled in his debut campaign in the Premier League, with Brendan Rodgers dropping him from the final five squads of the 2021/22 campaign.
However, it seems as if the Northern Irishman is using Soumare incorrectly, as Vieira – a man who knows French football very well – is keen to take him.
What’s the story?
Well, Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge – who is close to the south Londoners – claims that people at Selhurst Park are happy with their business so far, but would like to sign the 23-year-old as well.
Bridge adds that Vieira knows all about Soumare, and claims that some Leicester supporters are also unhappy to hear that their No.42 could already be leaving the King Power Stadium.
It is certainly fascinating to analyse what has happened to Soumare since his move from Lille.
At the time of his arrival, he was regarded as one of the most exciting midfielders in Europe, having just helped Lille beat Paris Saint-Germain to the Ligue 1 title, while also starring in the Champions League.
Soumare was even compared to Paul Pogba, but “without the baggage” – a huge compliment.
Surprisingly, he was also the subject of a £35m bid from Newcastle in January 2020, although he didn’t fancy joining Steve Bruce and Mike Ashley on Tyneside at the time.
Boubakary Soumare can shine at Crystal Palace
In our view, Vieira’s knowledge of French football, and his own experiences of being one of the best midfielders of his generation, will help him turn Soumare’s fortunes in England around.
Alongside another man who shone in France – Cheick Doucoure – Soumare could thrive. After all, Seko Fofana – a target for West Ham – has already described the Malian as someone who made his life easier.
Vieira also wouldn’t make this move if he wasn’t sure.
As seen in the signings of Joachim Andersen from Lyon, Doucoure from RC Lens, and the arrivals of Frenchmen in Odsonne Edouard, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Michael Olise, the 46-year-old has done well with his recruits from Ligue 1 and France.
If Crystal Palace can get this deal over the line, we are confident that Soumare will be a success.
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