Crystal Palace and Swansea are set to battle it out for the signature of Bristol City star Kasey Palmer in the January transfer window.
Palmer has fallen out of favour at Ashton Gate following a breakdown in his relationship with boss Lee Johnson, and he is subsequently open to a move away from the Championship club.
The Bristol Post reports that Palmer has attracted the attention of both Swansea and Premier League side Crystal Palace, with the former having already made an official approach for the 23-year-old.
Palmer was left out of Bristol City’s recent 4-0 defeat to Brentford, despite being seen completing fitness drills prior to the match.
The attacking midfielder feels unfairly singled out by his dissatisfied boss over his performances and lifestyle away from football, and he is willing to leave the club if his treatment continues in this manner.
The former Huddersfield man’s deteriorating relationships at Bristol City have stirred interest from Swansea, who have made a formal enquiry into the availability of the midfielder.
Crystal Palace have also approached the Championship club over a possible move for Palmer, along with another unnamed Premier League team and a Bundesliga side.
Palmer has scored one goal and provided three assists in 11 starts in the Championship this season, but his recent issues with manager Johnson have seen him ostracised from the squad entirely.
It is believed that Palmer’s poor rapport with Johnson is not irreparable however, and a future at Ashton Gate is still possible.
Crystal Palace are in desperate need of creativity in their side, having scored only 19 goals in 21 Premier League matches this season. The Eagles are sitting in the top half of the table, thanks to their excellent defensive capabilities, but coach Roy Hodgson is desperate to increase his side’s goal threat.