Why Crystal Palace should plot a summer move for Alfredo Morelos

Back in July 2019, Spanish language Scottish football news outlet Rincon Escoces (h/t Football Scotland) had claimed that Crystal Palace were interested in signing Rangers star Alfredo Morelos. However, no deal materialised and he stayed put at the Ibrox.

Alfredo Morelos, 23, broke into the public’s eye with his phenomenal goal tally of 29 across all competitions for Rangers last season. He was instrumental in his side’s 2nd-place finish in the Scottish Premiership table.

The Colombian international has replicated his form this season as well, scoring a total of 29 goals in 45 appearances for Steven Gerrard’s side and producing 10 assists. However, he is on a run of one goal in 12 games, meaning the Gers have been lacking their primary attacking outlet, and it is little surprise that they have struggled since the turn of the year.

Although Morelos’ performances have dipped since the winter break, he has proven himself to be a quality striker in the Scottish Premiership. Keeping that in mind, Crystal Palace must revive their interest in the centre-forward during the summer transfer window.

For the last few seasons, Wilfried Zaha has been Palace’s talisman. He has been the South London outfit’s biggest attacking threat and the primary source of goals. In the last three seasons combined, the Ivory Coast international has netted 26 goals. He has been ably supported by midfielder Luka Milivojevic, who has netted 22 goals in the last two campaigns combined.

However, both Zaha and Milivojevic have struggled to deliver the goods this season, contributing with just three and two goals respectively. This has directly affected the Eagles’ productivity in front of goal. Cenk Tosun was brought on loan from Everton in January to add goals but a knee injury has ended his season.

Considering the problems Palace have faced in scoring goals this season, Roy Hodgson should prioritise reinforcing that area during the summer transfer window. And signing Alfredo Morelos would be a good move for the South London outfit.

Morelos has already proven himself in the Scottish league and has the qualities to make the step up to the Premier League. The Colombian has already netted 29 goals in all competitions so far this campaign, further polishing his goalscoring credentials. The seven-cap Colombian international has netted 77 goals in 134 appearances for Rangers – numbers which are exceptional for a fairly young striker.

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However, Morelos must take the next step now if he wants to succeed at the highest level. And a move to Palace would allow him to showcase his talent at the top-level and it would also help him develop as a player.

Verdict

Morelos would help in increasing Palace’s productivity in front of goal and considering his record for Rangers, the Colombian star could prove to be a fantastic buy.