12.03.2020, Stadion der Stadt Linz, Linz, AUT, UEFA EL, LASK vs Manchester United, ManU Achtelfinale, im Bild Tormann Sergio Romero Manchester United // during the UEFA Europa League round of last 16 match between LASK and Manchester United at the Stadion der Stadt Linz in Linz, Austria on 2020/03/12. Linz *** 12 03 2020, Stadion der Stadt Linz, Linz, AUT, UEFA EL, LASK vs. Manchester United, Round of 16, in the picture Goalie Sergio Romero Manchester United during the UEFA Europa League round of last 16 match between LASK and Manchester United at the Stadion der Stadt Linz in Linz, Austria on 2020 03 12 Linz PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxAUT EPrei
According to Mundo Deportivo (h/t Mirror), Sergio Romero has been linked with a switch to Crystal Palace. The Eagles are keen to sign the Manchester United outcast in case Vicente Guaita leaves the club. Romero has not played even once this season after the return of Dean Henderson.
When Dean Henderson returned from his loan spell and was made a part of the first-team, it was clear that Romero would not be second-choice at Manchester United anymore. That has proved to be the case, with Henderson starting in the cup matches as well as a few league games.
United also excluded Romero from the Champions League squad and opted for Lee Grant as the third-choice keeper. All signs pointed towards the 33-year-old’s exit from the club. (h/t The Sun)
The Argentine has been very professional during his 5-year stay and has been content playing second fiddle. He was unfairly dropped for vital semi-final games against Chelsea and Sevilla last season despite David de Gea’s disastrous form.
While it would seem absurd on the up to pass up on an experienced shot-stopper like Romero, we need to look at Crystal Palace’s squad. Vicente Guaita has been the first choice since his arrival. Wayne Hennessey was, for a long time, the No.1 until Guaita took over. Let’s not forget that they added Jack Butland at the start of this season.
Guaita and Hennessey might be 33 years of age but they still have a lot to offer given that age is fairly decent for goalkeepers. Even if Palace wants a younger option, they can install Butland. The former Stoke keeper may not have gotten a game this season but he still has bags of potential.
With so many options at their disposal, it would be pointless to pursue another keeper of the same profile. The Eagles would be wise to not spend the money on a player in an overstocked position and perhaps reinforce some other position that needs strengthening.