Crystal Palace closing in on 'brilliant' sixth signing, set for medical

Crystal Palace are reportedly closing in on the signing of Will Hughes.

According to The Athletic, the Eagles have agreed a £6million deal for the Watford midfielder.

The deal could rise “closer to £10million” when factoring in potential add-ons, added the report.

Hughes is reportedly set to discuss personal terms and undertake a medical at Selhurst Park.

If Palace get the deal over the line, he would become their sixth addition of a hectic summer.

The Eagles have already signed Marc Guehi, Joachim Andersen, Michael Olise and Remi Matthews on permanent deals.

In addition, Conor Gallagher has joined on loan from Chelsea.

Crystal Palace target Will Hughes – the story so far

Hughes came through the ranks at Derby and made his debut in 2011.

He clocked up 189 competitive appearances for the Rams, registering 12 goals and 18 assists.

During his time at Pride Park, Hughes won 23 caps for England’s Under-21s.

In 2017, Hughes joined Watford for a reported £8million fee, and has made 118 competitive appearances for the Hornets.

Former Watford boss Nigel Pearson deemed Hughes “brilliant” following his display in a 2-0 win over Manchester United in 2019.

In 2018, Sky Sports said Hughes “is not in the usual mould of English midfielder.

“Hughes is all short passes and subtle movements.

“(Former) Watford boss Javi Gracia said he is ‘more of a typical Spanish player’.”