Crystal Palace are plotting a move for Newcastle United midfielder Jack Colback this month. According to a report in the English press, the Eagles are interested in acquiring the services of the 28-year-old Magpie in the January transfer window. It is understood that Newcastle boss Rafael Benitez wants Colback to depart the Tyneside club on a permanent basis in this transfer period.
Wolverhampton Wanderers has already shown interest in pursuit of the ex Sunderland midfielder, but only wants him on a loan deal. However, Crystal Palace are set to go toe-to-toe with the Championship club Ipswich Town on the hunt for his signature with Newcastle valuing Colback in the region of £3m.
It should not come as a surprise for Colback to be sold this month after he failed to impress Rafael Benitez this season. However, if the Magpies decide to do business with Crystal Palace, they might, in turn, strengthen their Premier League rivals which would not go down well with the Toon Army. Both clubs are currently in the race to save their Premier League lives going into the second half of the season.
Crystal Palace are currently sitting in 14th place in the Premier League table, with just goal difference separating them from the Magpies, who are in 13th but more importantly, the Eagles are just two points above the relegation zone. Roy Hodgson may have finally identified that his squad needs some injection of quality this month and he might look to bring in reinforcements in an effort to bolster their chances of avoiding a potential relegation at the end of the season.
Although, a possible move for Colback is questionable, to say the least. The Eagles central midfield is currently comprised of Yohan Cabaye, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, James McArthur, Luka Milivojević and Lee Chung-yong. And Palace fans will question if Colback is better than any of their current options in midfield.
It is difficult to see how the 28-year-old will get game time at Selhurst Park but his addition might add some depth to their squad which will help them cope with injuries and suspensions better. Colback is yet to make a first-team appearance for the Magpies this season. Although, he has a wealth of experience in English football having played 135 matches for Sunderland, 54 matches for Ipswich Town and 102 matches for Newcastle United during his career.
It remains to be seen whether the Eagles follow up on their interest with a concrete offer for Colback in the near future.
