Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace

Premier League • England

Vieira changes tune on Crystal Palace star with one foot out the door months ago

Cheikhou Kouyate, Jairo Riedewalkd, Jeffrey Schlupp, James Ward-Prowse, Crystal Palace v Southampton, May 2021.

Crystal Palace are reportedly in talks with Cheikhou Kouyate regarding a new contract, though the star was seemingly surplus to requirements just a few months ago.

Kouyate has been a mainstay for Palace for much of his time there. Indeed, he has missed just 12 league games in the previous three seasons combined.

He has still been a vital cog in the Eagles machine this season. Before January he had missed just two league games, starting 15 times.

As such, Patrick Vieira’s apparent desire to give him the boot came as a surprise. Galatasaray and Besiktas were ready to jump for the star.

However, after a triumphant African Cup of Nations with Senegal, Kouyate seems to be firmly in the Frenchman’s plans.

The Athletic, via HITC reports that the Senegalese is in line for a new deal at Selhurst Park.

That report states Palace are looking to extend his deal by a further 12 months. Kouyate, however, is reportedly angling for an extra two years on his contract.

There is confidence at Palace that they will be able to reach an agreement with the star.

Patrick Vieira claps Crystal Palace fans after their draw with Southampton, December 2021

Keeping experienced Premier League players in the side will be vital as Palace move forward under Vieira.

Supporters will no doubt be keen to see a Palace ever-present remain at the club for a longer period.

Kouyate midfield partner Gallagher could move on

Conor Gallagher warms up for Crystal Palace - on-loan Chelsea man is wanted by Dan Ashworth at Newcastle

In other news, Conor Gallagher, who has impressed on loan at Palace this season could be in line for a big move. Reports suggest Newcastle United are plotting a summer bid for the Englishman.

Gallager, a Chelsea player, will have a lot of clubs tracking his progress given his impressive season at Palace so far.

Chelsea themselves are likely to want to utilise the star, given he has shown his quality in the Premier League.

However, Newcastle are reportedly heading the queue should he become available.

READ MORE: Potential rift between Crystal Palace and Patrick Vieira cited after Man Utd move ‘explored’