EPL Transfer Rumours: Crystal Palace lining up a move for Morgan Schneiderlin
Despite being only in his 2nd year of the four-year contract at Manchester United, Morgan Schneiderlin is already believed to be looking for another club for himself. The player was subject to numerous rumors linking him with a move away from Old Trafford, only for the club to block any of them advancing.
However, given his sporadic usage by Jose Mourinho, rumors have resurfaced with regards to the future of the 26-year-old French and Sunday Mirror has now released a report suggesting that Crystal Palace are keen to sign the player in the upcoming transfer window.
Schneiderlin was critical to Southampton’s rise to fame in the recent years, having helped his side gain promotion to the Premier League after joining them from Strasbourg in 2008, courtesy of his performances in the middle of the park for the Saints.
A player renowned for his ability to mop up for his teammates with a mix of tackles, interceptions and blocks, Schneiderlin soon caught the eye of the footballing world with his imperious performances alongside Victor Wanyama at the heart of the Saints’s midfield and was soon on the move to Manchester United for a fees believed to be in the region of £27 million (inclusive of incentives).
Despite being touted as a valuable addition to the side that looked to regain their lost mojo, the dream move has not gone as per plan for the French international as he saw his side finish 5th in the League last season and is currently been termed as a squad player, rather than a starter.
In the current season, he has made just 6 appearances across all competitions, with 3 of them being from the bench and should Mourinho continue to use him as sporadically as he has, it would be prudent of the player to seek a move away from the club.
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Alan Pardew, Crystal Palace’s manager has already worked with Schneiderlin at St Mary’s in the League One and is believed to be a great admirer of his abilities. His side have not had a great start to the season and currently sit in the 15th spot, just 4 points away from safety and their defensive ineptitude has been on display on numerous occasions as they have already conceded 19 goals this season.
The decision to bring in the former Southampton man could prove hugely beneficial to the club as he has showcased an ability to shield defenses effectively, while also contributing to his side’s attack from a deeper position.
However, it might be easier said than done as Manchester United would be vary of letting go of one of their costly recruits in the recent time, unless Palace can offer a fee that matches their valuation of the player, which we believe has spiralled downwards this season due to his involvement in a measly number of games.
Another aspect that could thwart Pardew’s interest in the player, is the interest of his former manager Mauricio Pochettino, who is keen to bring him to the White Hart Lane in a bid to add further muscle to his side’s midfield.