why Joachim Andersen is set to leave the palace squad

According to The Mirror, Newcastle United are ‘leading the race’ to sign Crystal Palace centre-back Joachim Andersen.

We were heavily linked with a move for the defender over the summer, with several outlets confirming our interest in the Danish international.

Recent reports have suggested that our top priorities heading into the January window are a versatile forward, midfielder and goalkeeper, but The Mirror claim we are still looking to bring in a right-sided centre-back and remain extremely keen on the 27-year-old.

I’m sure Palace will be hugely reluctant to sell the ball-playing Dane, who has been one of their most consistent performers for a few season now. However, it wouldn’t surprise me if the player himself is looking for a new challenge, as he’s considered one of the best defenders outside the ‘big six’.

Speaking about links with a move away from Selhurst Park back in October, Andersen had this to say:

“There were a few things back and forth, but nothing concrete. It’s not always something I’m in control of. I want to play in the biggest and best clubs in the world, but it is not always up to me when to change.

“But I’m 27, and if I’m going to make a transfer, it should preferably be within the next few years. I’m not getting any younger, and if a club is going to pay for me, they have to be able to see some perspective in it too.”