Why Johan Hove to Crystal Palace would boost their midfield options
According to 90min (h/t Liverpool Echo), Crystal Palace have been credited with an interest in Stromsgodset star Johan Hove ahead of the summer transfer window.
Hove, 19, came through the ranks of Sogndal IF’s youth system in Norway and was signed by Stromsgodset in August 2018. After initially failing to claim a spot in the midfield for himself, he played a crucial role for his side in helping them to an 11th-place finish in the Norwegian League.
His impressive performances have also garnered attention from several English clubs including Everton, Newcastle United, West Bromwich Albion and Fulham, as per the report.
The Eagles have endured a mixed campaign so far and Roy Hodgson has managed to take his side to 11th position in the Premier League standings prior to the games getting suspended. After a 7-match winless streak which started by the end of December, Palace got back to winning ways in the last 3 league games.
One of the reasons for their poor performance is the lack of consistency in front of goal. They have managed to score just 26 goals so far, which is the second-lowest in the league this term. And it is clear that the manager needs to bring in reinforcements to the attacking unit.
Crystal Palace’s midfield scenario
Hodgson has a lot of work to do if they are to do better next season. One area which he needs to strengthen is the midfield. James McArthur, James McCarthy and Jeffrey Schlupp are the only three attack-minded midfielders available in the squad.
While McCarthy has just two more years left on his contract with the club, McArthur and Schlupp’s contracts are set to expire next summer. Thus, Palace need to bring in midfielders who could play a key role in the future.
In that regard, signing Hove from Stromsgodset would be a good idea by the Eagles. The Norwegian has already made 42 Eliteserien appearances and has earned comparisons to fellow countryman Martin Odegaard, as per the report.
The Norwegian U21 international could be a valuable addition to Palace’s squad if he reproduces his good form and learn under the guidance of Hodgson. His inclusion would bring healthy competition within the squad.
Read more
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- Why Crystal Palace should sign Bouna Sarr to boost their defensive options
Verdict
With McArthur already 32 and the other aforementioned midfielders reaching the back end of their careers, it is time Palace bring in midfielders for the future. And Hove could provide them with the much-needed depth before he becomes an integral member of the squad. Thus, the Eagles should lure the Norwegian to Selhurst Park at the earliest.
