As uncertainty over the future of Dutch defender Patrick van Aanholt continues to develop, Palace have reportedly identified Vitesse Arnhem player Max Clarke as a possible option at left-back for the Eagles.
Van Aanholt, who is working his way back to full fitness after suffering a dislocated shoulder at the end of the 2019/20 season, is one of a host of Palace players with less than a year remaining on their current contracts.
Despite the assured and formidable performances of academy product Tyrick Mitchell, Roy Hodgson’s side remain keen to improve their depth in the left-back position.
Mitchell will likely continue to deputise for van Aanholt as he looks to build on an impressive run of form, which has included an assist against Manchester United and the preservation of a clean sheet on opening day against Southampton.
In terms of Clark’s own development, the 24-year-old impressed in the Netherlands and has reportedly garnered attention from a number of English clubs since moving abroad in 2018.
Clark’s most notable spell in English football arose in the 2017-18 season as he made 27 Championship appearances for his hometown club Hull City. Many players of that Hull side are accomplished Premier League stars today, with Clark playing alongside the likes of Harry Wilson, Fikayo Tomori and Jarrod Bowen during his time with The Tigers.
The former Hull starlet has also been capped for England at Under-16 and Under-17 level, playing alongside the likes of Everton forward Alex Iwobi, Fulham loanee Ola Aina and Liverpool winger Sheyi Ojo across both youth teams.
In a similar vein to the Eagles’ own Van Aanholt, the versatile Vitesse player is also entering the final year of his current deal. As a consequence, Palace may feel he is a viable option from a financial perspective whilst still holding the potential to improve.
