Crystal Palace are reportedly interested in the West Ham United winger but could it help Newcastle United get a player of their own?
Crystal Palace are at the front of the queue to sign Michail Antonio this summer, according to the Mirror, with the winger not in West Ham United’s long term plans.
Antonio has been tracked by the Eagles for some time as they seek reinforcements on the flanks, although there is expected to be significant Premier League interest in the 28-year-old.
How it could benefit Newcastle
Palace signing Antonio from the Hammers could have a knock-on effect that would be welcomed at Newcastle United due to their own interest in Andros Townsend.
As the Northern Echo reports, the Magpies are keen on re-signing Townsend from Selhurst Park two years after they sold the England international to the South Londoners.
It is thought it would cost the Toon around £20m to bring the 26-year-old back to St James’ Park, but perhaps if Roy Hodgson had a readymade replacement in Antonio he would be more likely to sell.
Although the two wide men generally operate on different wings – with Townsend preferring the left – they are two players in a very similar mould.
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