West Ham United are ‘increasingly confident’ of hi-jacking Crystal Palace’s move for Flynn Downes after entering advanced talks with Swansea City over a £12 million deal, according to Sky Sports.
It turns out lightning does strike twice after all.
After seeing two bids for the former England U20 international batted away by Ipswich Town two years ago, Crystal Palace appeared to be closing in on their long-term transfer target at last.
The Daily Mail claimed on Wednesday morning that Palace were in negotiations with cash-strapped Swansea over a potential £8 million swoop for one of the Championship’s most influential central midfielders.
But, like in 2020, initial hope turns to frustration.
West Ham United lead Crystal Palace in Flynn Downes chase
According to Sky Sports, the club now in ‘advanced’ talks with Swansea is not Palace after all but their London neighbours instead. West Ham are closing in fast, smashing The Eagles out the water with a far superior £12 million offer.
This is a blow to Crystal Palace, yes, though not a fatal one. Nothing has been signed just yet. And there’s little to stop Palace from matching West Ham’s £12 million bid. But Patrick Vieira, Steve Parish and co will have to move quick as West Ham charge towards the finish line.
“Flynn’s been absolutely unbelievable since he signed,” Swans skipper Matt Grimes said last season.
“I think he’s been first class. His attitude he brings to training everyday… he’s a top, top player. If his dedication and work ethic is anything to go by, I think he can go right to the top.”
David Moyes, a coach who demands ‘dedication and work ethic’ above all else, is determined to add a new midfielder to his paper-thin engine room after losing Mark Noble to retirement. Alex Kral has also left.
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