- Kamada is set to leave Crystal Palace
- A move to the Turkish Super Lig on the cards
- Lerma’s future needs addressing
Daichi Kamada could be headed to the Turkish Super Lig when his contract with Crystal Palace expires in June. The Japanese midfielder is expected to follow Oliver Glasner out of the club at the end of the season.
The 29-year-old has become a fan favourite at Selhurst Park and was a key player in last season’s FA Cup win. He will be eager to end his spell with the Eagles by helping them win the Europa Conference League.
Palace will need to find a replacement, given how important Kamada has been. He arrived as a free agent back in July 2024, reuniting with his former Eintracht Frankfurt manager Glasner.
Kamada Eyed by Besiktas
Kamada has been on Galatasaray’s radar in previous years, but it’s their Super Lig rivals, Besiktas, who are keen. A report from Turkish outlet Fanatik reports that Kara Kartallar are making “efforts to sign” the Japanese midfielder.
Besiktas want to capitalise on the opportunity to sign the player as a free agent. They are “aiming to act quickly” to add Kamada to their squad for next season.
A move to the Turkish outfit would certainly be an interesting one, and they are looking to strengthen their midfield. He’d join a squad possessing former Leicester City midfielder Wilfried Ndidi.
For now, all of Kamada’s focus will be on helping Palace try to win the Conference League and they are through to the quarter-finals of the competition. Glasner’s men meet Italian side Fiorentina, with the first leg taking place at Selhurst Park on April 9th after the international break.
Kamada has made 33 appearances across competitions this season, posting three assists. He’s formed a strong partnership with Adam Wharton in midfield.
Jefferson Lerma Extension a Must
With Kamada on his way out of Palace, it’s vital Jefferson Lerma remains with the South Londoners. The Colombian’s contract also expires this summer, but the club have the option of a one-year extension.
Reports claim that the Eagles do intend to take up that option because they value his versatility and feel he is a reliable member of the first-team squad. The 31-year-old has been used in midfield and defence this season.
Palace will want experienced players to help a Glasner replacement in a transitional period. There’s no word on who that will be although several names have been linked.
Lerma has appeared 37 times across competitions, registering five assists. He has been with the club since July 2023 when, like Kamada, he joined as a free agent after leaving Bournemouth.
