Palace Intensify Negotiations
Crystal Palace have stepped up negotiations with Olympique Lyonnais as they seek to sign defender Ruben Kluivert. The Premier League side have made the 25-year-old Dutch centre-back their primary target after a proposed move for Club Brugge’s Joel Ordóñez fell through following a failed medical examination.
According to reports, Palace are now accelerating talks to secure the defender’s signature before the transfer window closes. Lyon are reportedly open to selling Kluivert as they look to balance their finances, with the French club valuing him at approximately €20 million.
Defensive Reinforcements Required
The Eagles’ pursuit of Kluivert has gained urgency following the collapse of their deal for Ordóñez. Manager Oliver Glasner is actively seeking to strengthen his defensive options, and Kluivert has emerged as the preferred candidate to bolster the backline.
The Dutch defender is not short of alternatives, however. Reports indicate that another Premier League club and a European team have already sounded out Kluivert’s entourage regarding potential moves.
Career Context and Timeline
Kluivert joined Lyon from Portuguese side Casa Pia for €3.78 million last summer. During his debut season in France, he made 24 appearances across all competitions, contributing two goals and two assists, though his campaign was interrupted by several fitness setbacks.
Should Palace reach an agreement with Lyon, Kluivert could travel to London as early as this weekend to finalise personal terms and undergo a medical. The South London club appear willing to meet the asking price, though negotiations remain ongoing with multiple clubs monitoring the situation.