Joachim Andersen has now admitted that he would like to leave Crystal Palace for a bigger club.
The Denmark international made the comments when speaking to Danish news outlet Bold.
So, what did Joachim Andersen say about potentially leaving Crystal Palace? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well, the Dane did concede that he is happy at Selhurst Park, and is not planning to force an exit.
However, Andersen admitted that he would ideally like to play at a higher level, specifically in the UEFA Champions League.
The Crystal Palace No.16 said: “It is clear that this summer I will be 28 years old. It is limited how much money clubs will spend on a 28-year-old, or, if it is for next year, a 29-year-old, so it will have to be soon if something is to happen.
“Of course I would like to take a step up, but it is not up to me. I am doing my part to take a step up. All players want to play at the highest level possible and ultimately it is up to the sporting directors to make those choices. I can’t do that much. I’m happy to be at Palace and I have a big role, so that’s what I spend time on.
“The Champions League is always great. I played it in Lyon and got a taste for it. It’s clear that the Champions League is one of the coolest things.”
Now, some Crystal Palace fans will be upset to hear that, although Andersen hasn’t said anything out of line here.
The £17m man is simply expressing a bit of ambition, while also staying respectful to Crystal Palace.
If there is anyone at Selhurst Park who doesn’t hold aspirations of playing in the UEFA Champions League, then we would have to question their desire and belief.
Crystal Palace could make a huge profit on Joachim Andersen
If a UEFA Champions League outfit do make an offer for Andersen in 2024, a huge profit could be coming Crystal Palace’s way.
The Dane cost just £17m when Dougie Freedman signed him from Lyon in July 2021.
Now – as WhoScored shows – Andersen is the best performing central defender across Europe’s top five leagues with an average rating of 7.6 so far this season.
Therefore – based on what other central defenders have gone for in the market nowadays, such as Wesley Fofana to Chelsea for £70m – Crystal Palace would be entitled to demand at least £60m for the Denmark international.
