Sources: Crystal Palace star Cheikhou Kouyate in advanced talks to sign new deal
Crystal Palace are in advanced talks with midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate over a new contract, Football Insider understands.
The 32-year-old’s current deal expires in the summer and it was feared he could leave Selhurst Park on a free transfer.
A recruitment source has told Football Insider that Palace have offered the midfielder a new deal and the player is ready to sign it to extend his stay at the club.
Kouyate is still an integral part of Patrick Viera’s side despite his advancing years, making 26 appearances across all competitions this term.
The former West Ham man is also a key part of the Senegal side which lifted the African Cup of Nations in February.
The 78-cap star has a wealth of experience in the Premier League playing both in centre-back and holding midfield roles.
Kouyate made the move to West Ham in 2014 after impressing with Belgian giants Anderlecht.
While playing for the Irons, manager Sam Allardyce compared the midfielder to his current boss and Arsenal icon Patrick Vieira.
He made the switch to Crystal Palace in 2018, signing a four-year deal.
The Selhurst Park club paid a reported potential fee of £11million for his services.
The Dakar-born star has gone on to make 136 appearances for the club, scoring three goals.
Kouyate has continued to hold down his defensive midfield spot despite his contract situation.
Loan star and fellow mainstay Conor Gallagher has featured alongside the 32-year-old in a three-man midfield for most of this term.
Palace, who have impressed under the stewardship of Vieira, sit ninth in the Premier League.
The Eagles are also set to take on Chelsea at Wembley in the FA Cup semi-final on 17 April.
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