Crystal Palace have been offered the chance to tie up a deal for Lyon defender Rafael this month, according to a report from Sky Sports.
The Eagles did not sign a replacement for Aaron Wan-Bissaka following his £50 million transfer to Manchester United in the summer transfer window. Still, it seems they have the opportunity to land a right-back in the immediate future.
Former Manchester United defender Rafael appears to be surplus to requirements at Lyon, with Sky Sports citing Kenny Tete’s role as the club’s starting defender on the flank as a key reason behind their willingness to let him depart.
However, Southampton and Brighton and Hove Albion are both also noted as potential destinations for the two-time Brazil international.
Read Crystal Palace’s verdict
Having already been linked with Genk right-back Joakim Maehle, it seems the Eagles are very much on the lookout for reinforcements at the back.
Roy Hodgson has used Joel Ward and Martin Kelly as his options on the right-hand side of the defence this season, but further strengthening is seemingly being pursued.
Rafael has always been blessed with good technical ability, but his positioning and capabilities in the defensive phase of play have never convinced.
Given the impetus that Hodgson’s style places upon quality in one-on-one situations, it would be hard to see just how the 29-year-old would fare upon a return to the Premier League.
Rafael would provide the Eagles with some much-needed depth on the right-hand side, but pursuing younger alternatives who are more rounded in defensive transition could be a wiser strategy this month.
