According to a recent report by The Daily Star, Crystal Palace are still interested in acquiring the services of Fedor Chalov from CSKA Moscow. The same source has also mentioned that the Eagles boss Roy Hodgson is eager to strengthen his frontline and has identified the Russian striker as an ideal candidate to spearhead his attack at Selhurst Park.
Chalov’s Fruitful Season At Moscow
The 21-year-old has enjoyed a fantastic campaign at the VEB Arena after he put in several memorable performances for Viktor Goncharenko’s side so far. He has registered six goals and six assists in 31 matches for the Moscow-based outfit this term across all competitions which goes to highlight his growing influence at the Russian capital.
Chalov has averaged 2.6 shots, 1.5 key passes and 0.5 dribbles per 90 minutes for CSKA Moscow this season (stats via whoscored). His numbers prove that he is maturing as a striker, so a summer move to England will be a welcome change for him at this stage of his playing career.
The Moskau-born prospect has also represented the Russian national team in two international matches but is yet to score his first goal for his nation. If he can continue to perform at such a high level, then he will be guaranteed a place in Stanislav Cherchesov’s squad for the next edition of the UEFA European Championship which is now scheduled to take place in the summer of 2021 because of the recent coronavirus pandemic.
What Will The Russia International Add To Hodgson’s Side?
Chalov is a quick and agile centre-forward who tends to net essential goals for his team. He is also not afraid to set-up his teammates in the final third if they are occupying a better position than him, which explains why he has earned six assists so far this season. The Russian marksman’s productivity, coupled with his work-ethic to run the channels up top, make him a decent option for Palace to consider in the off-season.
Chalov will not only be an upgrade over Jordan Ayew but could also strike up a lethal partnership with Wilfried Zaha at Selhurst Park. He will add some much-needed goals and creativity to Hodgson’s frontline but might need time to settle into life in English football. There are still some question marks over whether the CSKA Moscow youth product has what it takes to cope with the physicality and high intensity of the Premier League.
The 21-year-old’s addition will also allow Hodgson to make some alterations to his formation and strategies so that his players are well-prepared for the new campaign. The possibility of a strike partnership between Chalov and Zaha will be a mouth-watering prospect for any Palace supporter. After all, the Eagles are known to be a defensively solid side under Hodgson but have often lacked invention going forward. Hence, the English head coach can resolve most of his goal-scoring concerns if he can find a way to lure Chalov to South London this summer.
