Batsman returns! Chelsea forward Michy Batshuayi has returned to Selhurst Park for his second loan spell with Crystal Palace for the duration of the 2020/21 season.
Whilst the Eagles have taken the 26-year-old on a season-long loan spell, they also hold an option to buy the striker after the 2020/21 season with the denouement of his loan spell – as opposed to an obligation to buy.
The striker, who would ordinarily be a free agent at the end of the upcoming season, has also penned a 12-month contract extension in order to prevent the Belgian leaving on a free transfer, with Chelsea looking to recoup as much of the £33m they paid French giants Marseille in 2016 for Michy.
According to The Athletic, Batshuayi ‘was resistant to the idea of going out on loan’ and wanted a permanent move, but no firm interest materialised amid high wage demands.
The experienced international, who scored two impressive goals in a 5-1 win over Iceland on Tuesday, has fallen down behind Tammy Abraham, Olivier Giroud and Timo Werner in Frank Lampard’s pecking order. As a consequence, all parties were aware that Batshuayi’s game-time would be at risk of becoming increasingly scarce.
Fans of the Eagles have been crying out for additional firepower after managed a disappointing 31 goals in 38 games in 2019/20 – only relegated Norwich scored fewer goals (26).
Batshuayi’s previous loan spell over half a season in 2018/19 will give fans of both Chelsea and Palace cause for excitement – the Belgian international managed six goals in 13 appearances in all competitions whilst in SE25 and endeared himself to the fans, garnering a cult hero status among Palace fans.
Given his previously-prolific form at Palace, and with European competitions on the horizon, all parties will be delighted with this deal as Batshuayi looks to regain his own good form. Batshuayi will surely be welcomed to SE25 with open arms, whilst have a real chance to perform again at the highest level of English football.
He will again don the number 23 shirt for the 2020/21 season.
