‘Crystal Palace in talks to sign defender as Ben Chilwell’s loan from Chelsea ends’
Crystal Palace look to have made a decision over a potential permanent move for Ben Chilwell in the summer transfer window.
The left-back had found himself down the pecking order at parent club Chelsea during the first half of this season.
As a result, Chilwell was allowed to join Crystal Palace on loan until the end of the season back in the January transfer window.
Having made that move, the England international became a useful option for Oliver Glasner‘s side, helping them to the FA Cup title, albeit as an unused substitute in the final.
Even so, a number of Crystal Palace fans have called for the club to sign Chilwell permanently, although it appears that will not be happening.
Crystal Palace chasing alternative left-back
According to a new update from The Sun, the Eagles are in talks to sign Atletico Madrid left-back Reinildo Mandava.
The Mozambique international will be a free agent,when his contract with the La Liga giants expires this summer, and Fulham are apparently also keen to bring him to the Premier League.
Crystal Palace though, are said to be hopeful of signing the 31-year-old in order to provide cover for Tyrick Mitchell on the left-hand side of their defence.
It is noted that amid that interest in Reinildo, it appears unlikely that Chilwell will be returning to Selhurst Park in the summer.
The 28-year-old has two years remaining on his contract with Chelsea, securing his future at Stamford Bridge until the end of the 2026/27 season.
Chelsea may move Ben Chilwell on again
Football Insider Verdict
It may make sense for Crystal Palace to turn their attention to Reinildo over Chilwell in the summer transfer window.
Mitchell looks to be first choice at left-back for Glasner’s side at the minute, so whoever is brought in for that position is unlikely to play regularly.
So given the contract situations of the pair, it could be the right move to sign Reinildo on a free rather than pay a fee for Chilwell, given both have top level experience as well.
Earlier this year, Football Insider reported that Chelsea will look to find a new home Chilwell when his Crystal Palace loan comes to an end.
Since Marc Cucurella has nailed down the left-back position at Stamford Bridge, with funds and space in the squad needed for new signings, moving the England international now may be sensible.
Even so, given his experience and proven ability at the top level, it would be no surprise if there is interest in Chilwell from elsewhere this summer even if he does not return to Crystal Palace.