Crystal Palace appear to be bracing themselves for the possible exit of Marc Guehi in the summer.
The defender has been linked with several top clubs, and whilst he does not want to leave in January, a big-money move away seems likely given the level of interest in him.
Guehi has been one of Palace’s best performers for the last few seasons, and has helped form a fairly strong defence alongside Joachim Andersen.
It now seems that Palace are eyeing up a rising La Liga star before further interest develops in him, as a potential replacement for Guehi.
Crystal Palace eye up move for Cristhian Mosquera
A report from journalist Alan Nixon has now revealed that Crystal Palace are scouting Valencia centre-back sensation Cristhian Mosquera.
“Crystal Palace are putting Valencia’s top young centre half Cristhian Mosquera on their list of replacements for England’s Marc Guehi,” the report stated.
“The strong defender, who is also good on the ball, was checked out by Palace last week as they prepare for Guehi to move on for a huge fee.
“Guehi is likely to leave the Eagles next summer but if a massive bid came in next month then they could have to scramble to find someone new.
“Mosquera came through the ranks at Valencia and made the first team squad this season. He is relatively under the radar which is why Palace have a chance to strike.”
What would Mosquera bring to Crystal Palace?
The 19-year-old first made his initial first-team breakthrough two seasons ago, but has now become a regular starter, with 14 appearances this season so far.
The centre-back ranks highly among his peers for take-ons, tackles and interceptions, and should he replace Guehi, he would provide a physical presence at the back.
At 1.88m tall, Mosquera is taller than Guehi, but is a lot more inexperienced than the England star.
Neverthless, if he is signed and given regular first-team minutes, he has the potential to become a top defender if Palace decide to go down a route where the team is built around younger stars under a new manager next season.
