Crystal Palace want 'wonderful' attacker who's been compared to Di Maria

Crystal Palace have enjoyed a fruitful summer transfer window.

The Eagles have made three signings in the close season – Cheick Doucoure, Sam Johnstone and Malcolm Ebiowei.

And Chris Richards is reportedly on the verge of joining Palace from Bayern Munich for £17million.

Now, Palace appear to have set their sights on a player they wanted to sign last year.

According to the Evening Standard, the Eagles want to bring Burnley’s Dwight McNeil to Selhurst Park.

The newspaper notes how Palace enquired about the 22-year-old last summer.

However, the Eagles reportedly dropped their interest following a quote of £30million.

Now, there is apparently a belief McNeil could be available for half of what he was last summer.

Burnley are reportedly ready to cash in on the winger after they suffered relegation to the Championship.

Better still for Palace, McNeil is keen on a return to the Premier League.

He is currently waiting to see what offers are on the table for him this summer, added the report.

However, the Eagles aren’t the only club in pursuit of McNeil.

Aston Villa, Everton and West Ham have also been credited with an interest.

McNeil has two years remaining on his current deal.

However, Burnley have the option to extend that contract by a further year.

“I didn’t realise how good he was”

It’s no surprise to see Palace and other clubs eyeing McNeil.

At just 22, he has already made 147 appearances for Burnley, of which 134 have come in the Premier League.

McNeil has impressed at the highest level and, in August 2021, pundits loved what they saw from him in the 2-0 loss to Liverpool.

“I didn’t realise how good he was,” Peter Crouch said on BT Sport, via Lancs Live.

“He looked fitter, stronger faster in some way. He’s a wonderful footballer,”

Joe Cole went further, comparing him to Argentina international Angel Di Maria

“Without sounding to give him a big up, he reminds me of Di Maria,” said the former Chelsea man.

“He’s perfect for Dyche. He’s played directly against Trent who had a good game.

“I want to see him freed up a bit more.”