- Palace sign Munoz from Genk
- Wharton deal looking likely
- Eagles look to boost squad after underwhelming period
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Palace make push to boost squad
As the transfer window nears its conclusion, Crystal Palace have been proactive in enhancing their squad for a renewed push in the season. Recent developments include the signings of Colombian defender Daniel Munoz from Genk and an agreement with Blackburn Rovers for the acquisition of midfielder Adam Wharton.
Daniel Munoz, a right-back, joins Crystal Palace from Genk on a three-year deal valued at £6.8 million, with an additional year option. Having moved to Belgium in 2020, Munoz swiftly made his mark by clinching the Belgian Cup in his debut season. His international debut in 2021 paved the way for 23 caps, including an impressive showing in the Copa America semifinals that same year.
Munoz’s transfer was not without its share of speculation, as reports suggested he had initiated a strike at Genk to facilitate his move to the Premier League side. His arrival at Selhurst Park adds depth to the defensive line and reunites him with compatriot Jefferson Lerma. With 17 league appearances this season, Munoz brings valuable experience, contributing five goals and an assist.
Steve Parish, the chairman of Crystal Palace, expressed his delight at Munoz’s arrival, citing his quality, character, and track record at both club and international levels. Parish believes Munoz’s abilities, athleticism, and tenacity will significantly bolster the squad for the ongoing season and beyond.
Meanwhile, negotiations for Adam Wharton from Blackburn Rovers are underway. The 19-year-old midfielder, a product of Blackburn’s academy, is poised to make the switch to Crystal Palace for an initial fee of £18 million, potentially rising to £22 million. Wharton, who has made 51 appearances for Blackburn, including 26 this season with two goals to his name, represents a promising addition to Palace’s midfield.
Despite a previous bid of £18.5 million being rebuffed, Crystal Palace remains optimistic about finalising Wharton’s transfer. Wharton’s potential move reflects his burgeoning talent and the allure of Premier League football. Blackburn Rovers manager Jon Dahl Tomasson acknowledged the interest in Wharton, acknowledging the player’s qualities and the inevitability of such moves in football.
Betting Implications
Palace have fallen down the table and are currently only five points clear of the drop zone. By bringing in a couple of new faces, boss Roy Hodgson will hope that his side can pull away from trouble and climb the table during the second half of the season. Their travelling support expressed discontent over the direction of the club during their defeat to Arsenal earlier in the month. The signing of a promising young player such as Wharton might boost morale among supporters and might give some greater confidence in the direction of their club.
Bettors need to look at how the new signings affect the squad and decide whether Palace are worth backing on a match to match basis. Equally if they do not have the desired affect some might see Palace as an outside bet to be relegated. At the time of writing the Eagles are 10/1 to be relegated with bet365. The bookie consider Palace the sixth most likely team to go down.
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