According to recent reports, Real Betis are in talks with Crystal Palace regarding a deal to sign goalkeeper Vicente Guaita.
The reports by Superdeporte claim that new Betis boss Manuel Pellegrini is set for a summer of ‘rejuvenating the squad’, and has identified Guaita as a ‘prime target’ (via Football Espana).
The shot-stopper only arrived in south London in 2018, after moving to Palace on a free transfer from Getafe CF.
However, in that relatively short space of time, the 33-year-old has gone on to establish himself as the Eagles’ number one, featuring 59 times, conceding 68 goals and keeping an impressive 20 clean sheets.
This season, the Spaniard made 35 appearances in the Premier League, conceding 42 goals and keeping 10 clean sheets, averaging a WhoScored match rating of 6.69/10.
Due to his fine form this term, there had even been links with Chelsea, although it would appear that their interest in the ‘keeper has subsided for now.
However, it seems that the Betis interest is rather more concrete, with it being said that Guaita is Pellegrini’s ‘number-one objective‘ this summer, due to the fact that Dani Martin and Joel Robles had unimpressive campaigns last term.
And, while it remains to be seen whether or not Roy Hodgson would be willing to sell the £3.60 million-rated Guaita this summer, Betis are said to be ‘confident‘ that he will be their first summer signing.
TIF Thoughts…
It would seem unlikely that Palace would be eager to sell Guaita without having lined up a replacement, as should the Spaniard leave the club this summer, Hodgson would be left with only Wayne Hennessey as an option in goal – while it would appear the Welshman has fallen out of favour at Selhurst Park over recent seasons.
Would you be happy for Palace to sell Guaita this summer?
Yes
No
Having said this, considering Guaita is 33 years old and getting towards the twilight of his career, should Betis offer a decent transfer fee for the ‘keeper, say, above his £3.60 million market valuation, it may be too good for Palace to turn down.