Man Utd and Crystal Palace differ on valuation for £70m England international

Manchester United are considering a move for Crystal Palace winger Eberechi Eze, according to reports.

Focus in recent weeks has centred around Michael Olise, the Eagles talisman who has been sidelined for most of the season. His five goals in nine games have made him a rumoured target for several Premier League clubs.

However, fresh claims now suggest Eze is the man the Red Devils are chasing. The 25-year-old only penned a new contract in November, with Palace boss Roy Hodgson hinting he had committed his long-term future to the club.

“I’m delighted for the club and pleased for Ebere as well,” the manager said. “He’s done so well in the three years he’s been with us and it’s great to know that he’s pledged his future to the club.

“That says a lot about his confidence in where the football club is going and what we can achieve here because his ambition is to establish himself in the English national team. He obviously believes, in signing that long contract, we can get him there. For us, having him on the field every week is a major bonus, because of the threat he poses to the opposition.”

But Spanish outlet Fichajes are reporting that the new deal will not stop United from making their move. Out wide has proven a conundrum for Erik ten Hag this season, with Jadon Sancho’s situation being well-documented before his loan exit and £85million Antony struggling for form.

Eze would add proven top-flight experience to the Red Devils’s ranks and, as an England international, may want a move with Euro 2024 on the horizon. However, the report also highlights how far the two clubs are in regard to valuation.

United are happy to fork out around £70million for Eze but Palace want £20million more. Football analytical site transfermarkt.com values the winger - who has three goals and two assists in the league this season - at £45million.