Crystal Palace fans are understandably on edge after the departure of Joachim Andersen was followed by a second defeat in two Premier League games.
Oliver Glasner is yet to see his side get a point on the board after Crystal Palace began the 2024/25 campaign with a 2-1 defeat against Brentford and a 2-0 loss to West Ham.
Now – however – Dougie Freedman is looking to sign a player Patrick Vieira wanted back in 2021 to improve Crystal Palace‘s current situation…
Crystal Palace want Rayan Ait-Nouri
Alan Nixon has now claimed on his Patreon that Crystal Palace are keen to sign Rayan Ait-Nouri from Wolves.
It is said that those at Molineux want £30m to sell the Algeria international, who Nixon states is Glasner’s No.1 choice as Freedman hunts for a left-sided player.
Interestingly, the respected journalist adds that Wolves are keen to sign Sam Johnstone before the transfer window closes on Friday 30th August, so a potential player-plus-cash deal could materialise.
In case you missed it, Johnstone has asked to leave Crystal Palace after losing his No.1 shirt to Dean Henderson.
The Wolves No.3 – who is 23 years of age – has made a name for himself as one of the most talented defenders in the Premier League following his £9.5m move from Angers in July 2021, scoring three goals while also providing two assists in 38 appearances last season.
Nixon adds that Franco Umeh could be loaned out if a deal to sign Ait-Nouri materialises, as Glasner is currently training the 19-year-old up as cover for Tyrick Mitchell on the left.
Algeria international was a target for Patrick Vieira in 2021
Ait-Nouri has actually been on Crystal Palace’s radar for many years.
A story from Jeunes Footeux back in 2021 claimed that Patrick Vieira wanted the man from Montreuil at Selhurst Park to provide competition for Mitchell.
Unfortunately, a deal never materialised as Ait-Nouri then made a name for himself at Molineux, ensuring his value rose far beyond the £9.5m he initially cost, although a move could now be made possible thanks to the fact Wolves want Johnstone.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Crystal Palace are expected to be busy in the final days of the summer transfer window.
