Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Sat 11 April 2026 7:45, UK

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Daichi Kamada should be on Newcastle United’s shortlist when he leaves Crystal Palace on a free transfer this summer.

The Japan international was fantastic as the Eagles beat Fiorentina 3-0 at Selhurst Park on Thursday, handing them a massive chance of making it to the Conference League semi-final.

Crystal Palace would likely have wanted to hand the 29-year-old a new contract, but he, like Oliver Glasner is expected to leave this summer.

It has been public news for some time now that the Austrian will depart Selhurst Park, with several Premier League clubs set to be interested in his services.

Newcastle’s manager, Eddie Howe, is under significant pressure at St James’ Park, and could even find himself replaced by the 51-year-old.

Daichi Kamada to follow Oliver Glasner

Football Insider exclusively revealed last month that Newcastle are not expected to sack Howe, despite a hugely disappointing season.

Question marks remain over the 48-year-old’s head, however, and the prospect of a fresh start under Glasner could be attractive.

The Austrian is among the favourites to take over at St James’ Park if Howe is dismissed, and he would inevitably bring Kamada with him.

The pair first crossed paths with each other at Frankfurt in 2021, with the midfielder enjoying two superb seasons under his new manager.

When Glasner left in 2023, so did Kamada, joining Lazio on a one-year deal while the 51-year-old awaited a new opportunity.

As soon as Palace came along in February 2024, the Japan international packed his bags and arrived in South London just months later.

But the 29-year-old’s performance against Fiorentina has reiterated that he is Glasner’s man for a reason.

Kamada played a key part in both goals, first finding Daniel Munoz with a great pass in the build-up to Tyrick Mitchell’s goal, before assisting Ismaila Sarr with a perfect cross.

His departure will be felt by Palace in the summer, and their loss can be Newcastle’s gain.

Where would Kamada fit in at Newcastle?

Kamada often makes up a double pivot with Adam Wharton in the Palace midfield, but he can also shift to a more advanced position in a three.

This is likely how Glasner would use him at Newcastle, with the likes of Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Joelinton offering slightly deeper profiles.

The attraction to Kamada is his technical ability and his understanding of the game, which allows him to play all manner of roles.

And with the manager who knows how to utilise him better than anyone else in charge, Newcastle could not go wrong.