Liam Duckstein
Crystal Palace are doing everything in their power to persuade Andoni Iraola to replace Oliver Glasner this summer, sources have told Football Insider. The Spaniard has emerged as the Eagles’ top target as they work towards appointing their next manager, with efforts ongoing behind the scenes to convince him to move to Selhurst Park.
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Chelsea are also believed to be keen on the manager after he confirmed he would be leaving Bournemouth when his contract expires next month. Palace are determined to agree terms with Iraola and are working towards that end, with the belief that winning the Conference League would strengthen their position, while any delays in Chelsea’s managerial plans could work in the Eagles’ favour.
Transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke reported on 11 May that Palace are pushing hard to secure Iraola, with sources describing his potential appointment as a “massive coup” for the club. No formal decision is expected before the end of the Premier League season, but Palace are now set to accelerate their pursuit.
| Games | 125 |
| Wins | 48 |
| Draws | 36 |
| Losses | 41 |
| Goals For | 205 |
| Goals Against | 193 |
Other candidates remain on Palace’s radar, but Iraola‘s body of work at Bournemouth puts him in a class of his own among the options being considered.
“It’s an open race for Iraola’s signature for next season. He’s done a remarkable job at Bournemouth. Palace are doing everything they possibly can to try and tempt Iraola to be the man to succeed Oliver Glasner at Selhurst Park. He’s in the frame for the Chelsea job as well. He’s among the contenders for that. Palace are very keen to win that race for Iraola and try and convince him to make the move to Selhurst Park. He’s a top manager and there’s no doubt there will be a huge demand for him in the summer because of what he’s done at Bournemouth.” – Pete O’Rourke, Football Insider Transfer Insider podcast
Chelsea Also in the Hunt
Crystal Palace are not the only club circling. Iraola features prominently on Chelsea‘s list of managerial candidates for next season. Calum McFarlane is currently leading the Blues until the end of the campaign, after which Chelsea will move to appoint a permanent boss.
Iraola‘s availability on a free transfer has pushed him up Chelsea‘s shortlist, and his track record at Bournemouth has drawn considerable admiration from the club’s hierarchy. Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider, though, that Chelsea are in active talks with Xabi Alonso, who has emerged as their primary target. Alonso has been without a club since being sacked by Real Madrid in January and could make his Premier League bow after months of speculation.
The summer race for Iraola‘s signature is shaping up to be one of the most competitive managerial pursuits of the window. Follow TipsGG for full coverage as the story develops.
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