Crystal Palace are expected to be busy this summer when they conduct their transfer business for a new manager. Oliver Glasner will still be contracted to the club when the window opens on June 1st, but he’s headed off later in the month.
Whoever replaces Glasner could be gifted one of the most high-profile signings in Palace’s history. A report from Sports Boom claims that the Eagles are eyeing former Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay.
The Scot left United for Napoli in the summer of 2024 for £25m and has become one of Serie A’s top performers. McTominay won the Italian league’s MVP of the Year award after helping fire Antonio Conte’s side to the Scudetto.
Palace hot for Scott
Palace are reportedly showing interest in McTominay, who has just over two years left on his contract with Napoli. A source claims that the Eagles are “monitoring developments closely” and are weighing up whether to move for the former Red Devil.
Manchester United are considering bringing their academy product back to Old Trafford. That said, the club seemingly leading the race is Newcastle United, and Eddie Howe is eager to “beef up” his midfield.
McTominay has been sensational in Naples and has posted six goals and three assists in 23 league games this season. He has been a key man under Conte, who called him “extraordinary” and proved many of his critics wrong from his Manchester United spell.
| Scott McTominay (Serie A 2025-26) | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Appearances: | 23 |
| Goals: | 6 |
| Assists: | 3 |
| Expected goals (xG): | 6.09 |
| Big chances created: | 1 |
| Key passes: | 0.7 |
| Ground duels won: | 3.7 (50%) |
| Aerial duels won: | 1.6 (61%) |
The main problem Palace will have if they do want to sign the Scottish midfielder, as suggested, is the potential fee. Napoli are thought to be demanding £60-70m to sell their star man this summer.
That would smash the club’s current transfer record, which was the £48m spent on Jorgen Strand Larsen in January. There’s no doubt the Scot would be an incredible acquistion but it seems unlikely the board will sanction a transfer for such a high price.
Silly season
The summer transfer window hasn’t even opened yet, and the chances of Palace being prepared to spend such a hefty fee on McTominay are slim to none. A possible scenario which sees the Eagles swoop for the versatile Scotsman is if Adam Wharton departs.
Manchester United, Liverpool and Real Madrid are all reportedly eyeing Wharton, who could cost over £70m. Even so, you’d expect the higher-ups to prioritise a younger profile to replace the 22-year-old.
The transfer chiefs’ main focus is on strengthening the defence for Glasner’s successor. Marc Guehi still needs replacing following his £20m move to Manchester City in January.
