Crystal Palace transfer ‘very close’ and ‘interested’ in Championship man

Crystal Palace are busy preparing for the start of the new Premier League season.

The Eagles finished 12th last term in Patrick Viera’s first full campaign at the helm and will be looking to build on that.

They are currently away on pre-season and are currently in Australia after being in Singapore.

Here is a look at all the latest news and rumours coming out of the club today....

Richards incoming

Crystal Palace are reportedly set to make defender Chris Richards their fourth signing of the summer.

The centre-back is poised to join from German champions Bayern Munich after spending last term on loan at Hoffenheim.

The Metro report he is ‘very close’ to a switch to Selhurst Park for an initial fee of £10million, which could rise to £17million.

Banks latest

Youngster Scott Banks is currently away with the Eagles in Australia.

However, he has been linked with a loan move away ahead of the new season to League Two side Hartlepool United.

Their new boss, Paul Hartley, has refused to be drawn on the speculation though and has said, as per a report by the Hartlepool Mail:

“No there’s nothing to say. We’re linked with loads of players, I keep saying that, but no. We’re trying to get a creative player in.

“The loan market will be really important for us, so we’ve just got to be patient and keep working away.”

McNeil on radar

Crystal Palace are apparently keen on signing Dwight McNeil from Burnley.

The London club could throw the winger a Premier League lifeline following the Clarets’ relegation to the Championship.

The Evening Standard report that Viera’s side are ‘interested’ in landing him.