Crystal Palace eye move for Anthony Martial | OneFootball

Crystal Palace have been linked with a move for Manchester United forward Anthony Martial as manager Patrick Vieira looks to add more firepower to his forward line.

What’s the story?

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, the Eagles are eager to secure the services of the 25-year-old as speculation grows over his potentially imminent Old Trafford exit.

Martial’s days at United appear to be numbered after a disappointing 18 months for the France international, with Newcastle United also credited with an interest in his signature following their recent Saudi-backed takeover.

The report from Fichajes claimed that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s charges are set to demand a £40m fee for their unwanted striker, so Palace may need to fork out a record transfer fee in order to bring him to south London.

Would Martial be a good signing?

Yes, definitely!

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No way!

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Imagine him and Wilfried Zaha

The versatile forward appeared to have made a significant step up in his progress during the 2019/20 season when he bagged 23 goals and provided a further 12 assists in 48 appearances for the Red Devils in all competitions.

His outstanding displays caught the eye of several impressed onlookers, including former United title-winner Robin van Persie, who claimed that Martial is a “world-class” player.

“Martial always have an eye for his teammates and that’s what sets him apart from the others. That’s why I think he’s a world-class player,” said the Dutchman.

Dormer Bayern Munich and United midfielder Owen Hargreaves was equally complimentary following an impressive showing against Copenhagen in the Europa League, saying: “Everyone’s got an opinion on Martial. He’s a Ferrari. He just looked like a £100million player.”

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However, Martial was unable to build on that impressive 2019/20 showing last term. Injuries and a lack of form saw the former Monaco ace start just 17 Premier League matches and produce only 16 goal contributions in his 36 outings altogether.

After missing out on France’s squad for Euro 2020, it was hoped that the attacker would return to United refreshed and back firing once again this season, but he has struggled to make a positive impression on proceedings so far in 2021/22.

Martial has started just three games in the current campaign, finding the back of the net once after the arrivals of Cristiano Ronaldo and Jadon Sancho pushed him further down the club’s pecking order.

Nevertheless, the prospect of him linking up with Wilfried Zaha at Selhurst Park would still be a daunting prospect for any top-flight defence, so the Palace hierarchy must sanction a move over the coming months.