Reports emerging from Italy via QuotidianoSportivo are linking Crystal Palace to one of Serie A’s brightest talents, as the South London club aim to bolster their squad ahead of the second European season.
With uncertainty surrounding the futures of both Jean-Philippe Mateta and Eddie Nketiah, Palace may need to reinforce their depth up front.
Jørgen Strand Larsen signed for the Eagles in January, but after Pierre Sage’s appointment was confirmed, the club may be looking to bring another striker to Selhurst Park.
The latest rumours are linking Palace with a ‘top’ young talent from Serie A, as the South London club join the race along with numerous Premier League sides.
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Starlet of a striker
The reports are linking Palace with Bologna’s Santiago Castro, a 21-year-old Argentinian striker. He’s spent three seasons in Northern Italy, and whilst the club who were knocked out of the Europa League by Aston Villa have no intention of selling, if Palace can provide a bumper offer they may be open to a sale.
He’s scored 22 goals in 95 appearances since signing for Bologna in January 2024 from Vélez Sarsfield.
Whilst Castro is still developing, there’s no doubt he’d be a strong acquisition for Palace.
Scout Report
Castro plays predominantly as a striker, but is versatile and has featured across the front four. His ability allows for him to be used in a range of systems too.
Castro can drop deep to aid build up play, but he can also act as a target man and provide a strong outlet.
His finishing ability is strong, but he does make mistakes at times when passing in the final third.
Bologna have no intention to part ways with Castro, and are under no obligation to with the youngster having 4 years left on his current deal.
€40m is reportedly the fee the Italian side would be willing to consider.
For such a young and relatively unproven player, that would be a lot of money, especially after Strand Larsen’s arrival for a club-record fee in January.
