- Crystal Palace in four-horse race for Natan
- West Ham, Leeds and Brentford also keen
- Real Betis name their price
Crystal Palace’s reported interest in Real Betis defender Natan has been handed a boost as the Eagles slug it out with West Ham United, Leeds United and Brentford. The Brazilian has emerged as a potential summer transfer target in recent months.
Natan has caught the eye during his time in La Liga, becoming a mainstay in Manuel Pellegrini’s defence. He only joined Betis last summer but could already be on the move and the Premier League is a possible destination.
The 25-year-old has made 41 appearances across competitions, providing one assist and several important performances. It’s not often clubs are prepared to sell their top stars a year after signing them.
Crystal Palace Learn Betis’ Natan Stance
According to Spanish outlet ABC Sevilla, Betis are considering doing just that as they need to balance the books. They see Natan as one of the most “feasible candidates” given the growing interest in his services.
That said, there are differing claims about the price the Spaniards are demanding for the player. While the aforementioned outlet suggests they want €30m, Estadio Deportivo disagrees, suggesting that Betis are insisting on €30-45m.
Natan is a left-footed centre-back who has earned plaudits for his composure, high pressing, and ability to thrive in low-block systems. He has yet to earn a cap for Brazil but there are some in Spain who are touting him as a potential option for Barcelona.
Is Natan a Necessity?
Palace are no longer under as much pressure to sign a Marc Guehi replacement, given Jaydee Canvot’s incredible debut season. The French youngster arrived from Toulouse last summer and has already stepped up as one of the most important players in Oliver Glasner’s team.
Glasner’s first-choice back-three is Chris Richards, Maxence Lacroix and Canvot. He has Chadi Riad to turn to off the bench.
But the Austrian won’t be in charge next season and a new manager will be in the Selhurst Park dugout. It remains to be seen whether the South Londoners’ interest in Natan stems from their intention to build a squad for his successor.
The transfer chiefs should be prioritising at least one new midfielder with Daichi Kamada set to depart when his contract expires in June. They do have Cheick Doucoure closing in on a return to first-team football but Adam Wharton’s future is also uncertain amid links to Manchester United and Liverpool.
