Crystal Palace are submerged in deep danger as after three games, the Eagles are yet to open their account in the Premier League. Frank de Boer had the worst start to his maiden Premier League season and before things turn worse, he wants to make a significant number of changes to the squad before the deadline day.
According to reports, the Dutch manager is eyeing a surprise move for West Ham United defender Jose Fonte. The Portuguese defender arrived in January only but failed to make an impact since then.
De Boer has been trying to inflict a different style but things haven’t gone according to the plan. Three-man defence is the new sensation and the Palace manager seems to be the latest person to try this setup in the Premier League.
But to man the backline in this formation, you need to have three strong centre-backs which is a matter of concern for the manager. Both Scott Dann and James Tomkins are pretty good but Palace are crying out for a central defender following their shambolic defensive performance so far..
Supporters have already started to question de Boer’s appointment and time is running out for him to make some last gasp attempts. Fonte is not new at the Selhurst Park as he started his Premier League journey with the Eagles having arrived in England back in 2007
He spent three years at the London club and following his stupendous performances, Southampton hijacked him to the South Coast. De Boer’s managerial-ship has been put under scanner and he might be issued an ultimatum very soon if things keep on going like this.
De Boer has been trying to inherit a totally different philosophy at the club. Till now the players are used to playing long, direct football but the gaffer is trying to create a completely different vision, which is now facing a stumbling block. West Ham paid £8m for the 33-year-old and will be looking to recoup most of the amount. Fonte has started only a single match this season and it seems he is yet to impress the Croatian.
The Portuguese international was very popular among the Palace fans and given the current condition, the fans will be delighted to have their player back. Palace’s transfer activity has been very limited this season but current scenarios have forced them to dig deep into the transfer market. De Boer is adamant to add some new faces to the squad and Fonte could be the first of many incomings late this summer. Is Fonte the right man for Palace?
