Why Crystal Palace should go all out for Ruben Aguilar?

According to a report from the Daily Mail, Crystal Palace are locked in battle with Brighton to sign Montpellier right-back Ruben Aguilar.

Ruben Aguilar, 26, was part of the Montpellier defence that conceded just 42 goals in 38 games, as the club surprised many by finishing sixth in the French top-flight last season.

The right-back started 29 Ligue 1 games, providing solidity at the back as well as quality in the final third too, supplying five assists.

Crystal Palace are after a new right-back following the departure of £50million man Aaron Wan-Bissaka to Manchester United earlier this summer. It’s very surprising to see the Eagles yet to sign a replacement for Wan-Bissaka, despite more than a month being passed away.

United invested heavily on Wan-Bissaka, despite the 21-year-old having played just one full season in the Premier League. He has impressed during pre-season for the Red Devils, who are unbeaten in their preparations for the new campaign.

The England Under-21 international was named Palace’s player of the Year last season and it’s very crucial for Roy Hodgson to replace him before the new season starts.

Ruben Aguilar would be a great fit for the Eagles. He is a good passer of the ball while his agility and pace help him provide extensive attacking support from the flanks.

He likes to move in-field and play through balls in behind the defence or link-up with teammates rather than whipping in crosses into the box. The Frenchman can also deliver some decisive crosses in the offensive end of the field.

Defensively, the 26-year-old is an incredible reader of the game, and his main priority is to intercept passes rather than making tackles. Aguilar is a tactically astute and defensive diligent player, meaning he is more likely to thrive under Hodgson’s style of play at Selhurst Park.

And given his technical ability, he could combine very well with the likes of Andros Townsend and Jeffrey Schlupp on the far side.

Verdict

Aguilar will undoubtedly a gamble for the Eagles, given his lack of experience at the highest level of football. It is also doubtful whether he can replicate his performances in the fast-paced nature of the Premier League.

To Read More Crystal Palace News, Click Here:- Latest Crystal Palace News

But, if he does, he will represent a fantastic addition to the Palace backline as well as the perfect replacement for Wan-Bissaka.