Crystal Palace and Aston Villa Eye Fulham's Harry Wilson in Transfer Tussle
Crystal Palace are reportedly preparing to battle Aston Villa for the signature of Fulham's red-hot star Harry Wilson, who is seen as a perfect replacement for Eberechi Eze. The Eagles are said to be keen on the Premier League difference-maker, who is enjoying one of the best seasons of his career with nine goals and five assists so far.
Palace's Struggles and Recruitment Drive
It feels as though Crystal Palace are spiralling currently, sliding all the way down to 15th in the table after a superb start that once saw them in the top four. With 28 points, relegation is unlikely, but the team desperately needs to turn around their torrid form. Off the pitch, challenges abound: club captain Marc Guehi has been lost, Jean-Philippe Mateta seems to want to leave, and manager Oliver Glasner has confirmed he will depart at the season's end, sparking a search for a new boss.
In this trying time, good recruitment is crucial for both players and a manager. Palace have already signed Brennan Johnson from Tottenham early in the window, and now they are being linked with a second Welshman in Harry Wilson. According to reports from CaughtOffside, Palace are interested in the Fulham star, whose contract is in its final months, with talks having stalled for now.
Wilson's Form and Contract Situation
Harry Wilson's excellent form this season has made him a sought-after asset. He recently scored a free-kick winner in stoppage time over the weekend, showcasing his quality. Fulham boss Marco Silva praised him after the match, saying, "It's an incredible moment. When you are confident it is a perfect example and you show your qualities in many ways. He has been with us for a long time, we all know he is a great taker of free-kicks."
Wilson may be sensing a big move and a significant pay day, and he is unlikely to commit to a new deal until Fulham agree terms with head coach Marco Silva. This uncertainty has sparked interest from multiple clubs, with Aston Villa and Crystal Palace emerging as the leading contenders. For Palace, Wilson could be an ideal replacement for Eberechi Eze, given his productivity in attack and versatility to play both wide and in the number 10 role.
Transfer Prospects and Competition
Fulham are unlikely to sell Wilson this month, but a substantial offer could force them to consider a deal if he does not plan to sign a new contract, as they risk losing him for free in the summer. Alternatively, a summer transfer could be on the cards if his contract situation remains unresolved, though competition is expected to be fierce. Palace will need to act decisively to secure his services amid this growing interest.