Eddie Nketiah is set to join Crystal Palace for £30 million including add-ons. He’s been linked with various clubs this summer but Selhurst Park is the best destination for the 25-year-old.
Embed from Getty ImagesOliver Glasner’s side have been looking enhance their attacking options, bringing in a player who not only provides competition but also adds genuine quality to their forward line.
Jean-Philippe Mateta and Odsonne Edouard are Palace’s current options up top. Although they bring different elements to the attack, both are known for their physicality and aerial presence. In contrast, Nketiah offers a more well-rounded skill set, blending pace, movement, and sharp finishing. This versatility is what makes Nketiah an attractive option for Palace, who are looking to build a more dynamic and unpredictable attack.
Embed from Getty ImagesMarseille and Nottingham Forest had been in advanced talks with Arsenal over a deal for the but neither moves materialised. However Fabrizio Romano has reported that a move to Crystal Palace is imminent, adding him to a squad that already boasts a strong core of talent, including Eberechi Eze, Adam Wharton, Marc Guehi, and Ismaila Sarr.
Nketiah is a striker who thrives inside the opposition penalty area, but his game is not limited to close-range finishing. He is two-footed, allowing him to shift the ball and finish from various angles with precision. His movement off the ball is also a standout trait.
His knack for being in the right place at the right time has been a hallmark of his playing style ever since. Despite being a natural finisher, Nketiah has worked hard to develop other aspects of his game, particularly under the guidance of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.
Embed from Getty ImagesArteta has focused on improving Nketiah’s ability to link up play, which would be crucial for fitting into Palace’s tactical setup. Although Nketiah only started 10 out of his 27 Premier League appearances last season, he managed to score five goals, highlighting his potential if given a more consistent run in the team.
Standing at 5ft 9in, Nketiah does not possess the aerial prowess of players like Edouard or Mateta, but his excellent positioning and timing have allowed him to score headers despite his height. His all-around ability would give Palace a different option in attack, making him a valuable addition to their squad.
Embed from Getty ImagesNketiah’s ability to press high and with intensity fits well with Glasner’s tactical approach, which emphasises pressing from the front when in a high-block. Nketiah’s presence would add another layer to Palace’s attack, offering Glasner a different option depending on the opponent or match situation.
A move to Crystal Palace could be exactly what Nketiah needs to fully realize his potential. At 25, he is at an age where regular first-team football is crucial for his development. Despite making 168 appearances for Arsenal, nearly 100 of those have been as a substitute. A switch to Palace could offer him the consistent starting role that has eluded him at Arsenal.
Embed from Getty ImagesNketiah’s scoring record, including his status as England Under-21’s all-time leading scorer, shows that he has the potential to be a prolific forward if given the right platform. At Palace, he would have the opportunity to be a central figure in their attacking lineup, something that could be beneficial for both the player and the club.
Embed from Getty ImagesWritten by Isabelle Newnham
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