Palace ‘in talks’ with Lyon over move for Spurs target

Crystal Palace are in negotiations with Lyon over a deal for former Fulham loanee Joachim Andersen, according to reports.

Andersen, 25, was a shining light for Fulham as they were relegated from the Premier League last season, consistently impressing with his performances from centre-back.

The Danish international made three appearances for his country at the Euros, playing 41 minutes in the semi-final defeat to England.

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Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United have both expressed an interest in the defender, but according to Sky Sports, he is close to joining Palace, who are confident an agreement can be reached with Lyon.

Palace recently completed the signing of Marc Guehi from Chelsea, and new head coach Patrick Vieira is keen on bringing in another centre-back with Gary Cahill’s contract negotiations having stalled.

The former Arsenal man has recognised the squad needs refreshing, and is quickly going about his business. Ex-Southampton defender Jose Fonte reckons he’ll be a success at Selhurst Park.

“At Nice he did a good job in the first few seasons, of course we all know how incredible he was as a player, but as a manager he was perceived as someone with quality,” he told talkSPORT.

“I am looking forward to seeing what he can bring to Crystal Palace.

“I’m looking forward to what he can bring to the Premier League and to that team and it will be interesting to see what he can do, I think he definitely has what it takes to succeed.”

Simon Jordan, on the other hand, is not so confident, citing Vieira’s lack of managerial experience.

“This is a very brave decision,” the former Eagles chairman told talkSPORT.

“He’s not experienced in management in English football and managing Nice and New York City – with the greatest respect – aren’t blueprints because neither of those jobs were outstanding in terms of his attainment level.

“It is a risk. If I was taking the risk and looking down the list of available managers, I would make more of a case for Frank Lampard if I was moving in that territory.”