Why Signing Bournemouth’s Harry Arter Is A Gamble Worth Taking For Crystal Palace
Bottom-placed Crystal Palace are reportedly eyeing a January move for Bournemouth midfielder Harry Arter. The 27-year-old only recently signed a new four-year deal with the Cherries and he will not come cheap if they were to try. That said, considering the kind of performances he has been putting in for Eddie Howe’s men, Roy Hodgson seems to be right in placing an interest in him.
Palace are still at the bottom of the table and it is quite clear that they are in need of new players to improve their chances of escaping relegation this time. The future does not look good for them and signing Arter is likely to be a step in the right direction. Of course, they will need more new recruits but the fact remains that the Bournemouth star is quite capable of working his magic to improve the situation for the Eagles.
Arter has been a mainstay in the Bournemouth midfield as the club endured several lows and highs in the Premier League. He joined in 2010 from Woking and has established himself as a veteran player for the club. The Cherries are struggling this season but their situation isn’t as dire as Palace’s.
That in itself might make it unlikely for the £2.25m rated Arter to even consider a move to Palace. However, if the club can splash out some money to tempt him, they could have better chances of landing the player since Arter can do so much to add value to their midfield. The Eagles are in need of a hard-working midfielder and Arter has a tremendous work-rate in the middle of the park.
Although Bournemouth have been struggling, Arter has been one bright spark for them throughout and he continues to be vital for them. He has truly established his mettle as a Premier League midfielder and his experience can allow him to provide better support and creativity for Palace.
Besides that, Arter can also get his name on the score sheet as was proven in the 4-0 win against Huddersfield Town last weekend. In fact, the player is also putting in admirable displays for his country on an international level. However, there is one thing worth considering. At Bournemouth, Arter has the support of Andrew Surman and Lewis Cook but at Palace, he cannot expect the same kind of reliability.
Maybe Hodgson can trust him enough to add value to the club but that is a lengthy order and Palace cannot afford to take a risk like that. But the Eagles will add more players in January and from what we have seen so far, Arter could be a strong recruit for Palace.