Arsenal Midfielder Thomas Partey has left Arsenal this morning to join shocking Saudi Arabia Club.
Crystal Palace is currently in the market for a new striker, but reports suggest they are hesitant to meet Arsenal’s £40 million asking price for Eddie Nketiah, according to Alex Crook on Give Me Sport.
Despite their pressing need for a center-forward and their keen interest in Nketiah, negotiations seem to have hit a snag due to the substantial transfer fee demanded by Arsenal.
The quest to secure a striker at Crystal Palace has been ongoing since last summer, with a particular emphasis on reinforcing the center-forward position due to the lackluster performances of current players in that role.
While Nketiah remains a primary target, Arsenal’s valuation ranging between £40-50 million for the academy graduate has raised doubts about the feasibility of reaching a deal.
Arsenal is reportedly open to selling Nketiah if their asking price is met and they secure a suitable replacement, but they may have rebuffed an initial approach from Crystal Palace.
Despite the optimism from the London club about acquiring the England international, doubts linger about their willingness to meet the £40 million valuation, especially considering Nketiah’s substantial wages and Crystal Palace’s hesitance to commit to such a hefty fee.
Alex Crook has underscored the financial dynamics at play, highlighting Nketiah’s high wages and Crystal Palace’s reluctance to fork out such a significant sum.
He also pointed out Arsenal’s firm stance in rejecting multiple offers during the summer window, signaling their reluctance to part ways with Nketiah without securing a suitable replacement.
While Crystal Palace appears to be the most eager suitor, Crook revealed that several other Premier League clubs have also expressed interest in Nketiah. However, the prevailing sentiment is that Nketiah is more inclined to stay at Arsenal during this transfer window rather than seek a move elsewhere.
The focus now shifts to Arsenal’s urgent need for a new striker, with Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations constraining their ability to make substantial investments.
Selling Nketiah before acquiring a replacement becomes imperative for the Gunners, but the chances of realizing the £40 million asking price seem slim, particularly with Crystal Palace showing reluctance to meet the valuation.
As the transfer saga unfolds, both clubs have the opportunity to reassess their positions as the window progresses. While Crystal Palace might reconsider negotiations with a revised offer, Arsenal must navigate the challenge of balancing financial constraints with the imperative of strengthening their attacking options.
