Sources: Crystal Palace’s plan to sign West Ham star to replace Marc Guehi given boost
Crystal Palace are continuing to monitor Max Kilman ahead of January after he was axed by West Ham, sources have told Football Insider.
Marc Guehi looks set to leave Palace, with decision-makers at Selhurst Park drawing up a list of potential replacements should the England international depart in January.
Football Insider revealed in October that Palace have set their sights on a January move for Kilman, with the former Wolves defender falling out of favour with Nuno Espirito Santo.
The 28-year-old started West Ham‘s first 12 games of the Premier League season, but was dropped from the starting line-up against Liverpool and Manchester United.
Kilman was brought off the bench for the final minutes as West Ham drew 1-1 with Manchester United on Thursday.
Max Kilman to leave just 18 months into seven-year deal
West Ham signed Kilman in 2024, spending a huge £40million to take the defender from Wolves.
The 28-year-old signed a seven-year contract, but could be willing to call time on his stay at the London Stadium after just 18 months.
West Ham fans have called on Kilman to be dropped this season, with the defender making several mistakes under both Graham Potter and Nuno.
That wish has now been granted, with the latter appearing to favour a partnership of Konstantinos Mavraponos and Jean-Clair Todibo.
The pair were in fine form at Old Trafford, with only a fortunate bounce leading to Diogo Dalot‘s opener.
Igor Julio remains on the outskirts at West Ham, too, with the defender making just one start since completing his loan move from Brighton.
Julen Lopetegui departure key to Kilman change
Julen Lopetegui had been a big part of West Ham’s move to sign Kilman, with the defender proving key as for the Spaniard when he kept Wolves in the Premier League.
Kilman said following confirmation of the move: “I really enjoyed working with Julen during his time at Wolves. He’s a top-class coach and someone I learned a lot from, and I am confident I will continue to improve as a player under his management here.”
But after just 22 games in charge and only seven wins, Lopetegui would be dismissed at West Ham.
With his biggest backer gone, and his new manager looking elsewhere, Kilman may now seek a new beginning.