An ambitious Crystal Palace are reportedly set to sign Bayern Munich defender Chris Richards in a €15 million deal this summer.
According to Italian journalist, Fabrizio Romano on Twitter, Premier League side Crystal Palace are close to landing Bayern Munich talent Chris Richards this summer.
The 22-year-old joined the Bundesliga champions from FC Dallas in 2019. While he has not had a prolonged run-out in the Bavarian side’s first team, the USMNT international has enjoyed playing time for the reserves and also on loan at TSG Hoffenheim. Richards now looks set to swap the Allianz Arena for Selhurst Park.
Richards has caught the attention of Patrick Vieira, who is putting together something special with Crystal Palace. The French legend is among the greatest players of his generation and is steadily building himself a reputation as a stellar manager at Crystal Palace. He showed much promise with the Eagles last season and will only do better if backed right.
Crystal Palace are set to agree to a deal worth €15 million with add-ons for the Bayern Munich. Personal terms have already been agreed upon, and a switch to the Premier League appears to be a matter of time.
Chris Richards, now one step away from joining Crystal Palace on permanent deal from FC Bayern. Fee will be €15m with add-ons included, as @Plettigoal reported. Final details discussed. ??? #CPFC
There's full agreement on personal terms, Patrick Vieira wants Richards. pic.twitter.com/QHHC2dNWtv
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 20, 2022
Primarily a centre-back, the 22-year-old is capable of playing anywhere along the backline. This versatility will be a boon for a Crystal Palace outfit that is still some way away from being considered secure at the back. The addition of Richards will give them a young and upcoming defender who could blossom into something special.
A strong tackler, the youngster is also good with the ball at his feet, not to mention a colossus in the air. There is every skill in his locker to be considered a top-level talent. The arrival of Matthijs de Ligt makes his pathway to the Bayern Munich first team hard, and a move away from the Allianz Arena will serve Richards well.
Crystal Palace brought in two able defenders, Marc Guehi and Joachim Andersen last summer. Nathan Ferguson and the experienced James Tomkins complete Vieira’s centre-back complement. Richards might not just add numbers to the roster but also potentially develop into Tomkins’s long-term replacement at the club.
Crystal Palace are a club on the rise, and under Vieira could achieve something special soon. Richards looks set to become the latest youth talent to join what is an exciting side in London.
