Who is Naouirou Ahamada? Strengths and weaknesses of Crystal Palace transfer target

Everything Crystal Palace fans need to know about their potential new arrival
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Crystal Palace are reportedly trying to sign Stuttgart midfielder Naouirou Ahamada before the end of the transfer window. The Eagles have identified the 20-year-old as a potential addition.

The Athletic report that they are in ‘talks’ with him. Here is everything you need to know about the player....

Who is Naouirou Ahamada?

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The youngster was born in Marseille and had spells in the academies of local sides JO Saint Gabriel, Sporting Club Bel Air and Istres before he was snapped up by Juventus back in 2018. The former France youth international never played for the first-team of the Serie A giants but was a key player for their U23s during his two years in Italy.

Stuttgart stint

Stuttgart swooped to land him in October 2020 on an initial loan deal that was made permanent 12 months later. He has since made 27 appearances for the German club in all competitions, 16 of which have come this season, and he has chipped in with two goals.

He is under contract in the Bundesliga until 2025 but his side face a real battle to keep hold of him amid interest from Crystal Palace.

What has been said about him?

Speaking after his arrival at Stuttgart, their sporting director Sven Mislintat said, as per Bundesliga News: “We are convinced that he maintains the footballing quality and mentality to take the next steps in his development and quickly become a member of our professional squad.”

Strengths

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Amamada has bags of potential and has already experienced plenty of senior football before he turns 21 in March. He is a decent height at 6ft which means he poses an aerial threat in the middle of the park as well.

He is a strong passer of the ball and according to WhoScored, he has a pass completion rate of 85.2% this term which is the second best in Stuttgart’s team. Only Atakan Karazor has a better percentage.

The Eagles need more bodies ahead of the second-half of the campaign and he will offer useful competition and depth in midfield. In addition, with Luka Milivojević now 31 and James McArthur now 35, he would be a long-term option.

Weaknesses

Crystal Palace will be well aware that he doesn’t have any Premier League experience. As with any addition from abroad, it may take him a while to adapt to life in a new country, especially at such as a young age, and he is likely to not slot straight into Patrick Viera’s starting XI.

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