Everton ‘very attentive’ to midfielder’s situation – player ‘in their sights’ despite big competition

everton Sporting Clube de Lisbonne are ‘very attentive’ to the situation around star Morten Hjulmand this summer.

There is a said report that Everton One of the sides who are monitoring the 26-year-old as he looks to leave Sporting this summer.

Everton ‘very attentive’

The newspaper actually covers Atletico Madrid’s growing interest in the Danish midfielder, explaining that their interest goes back to the January transfer window.

According to their information, Sporting are currently unaware of any offer from Atletico, nor are they aware of any upcoming offers. This comes after reports that Diego Simeone’s side were keen.

Now they know that Atletico are very fond of Morten Hjulmand, but they are not alone.

According to A Bola, Everton are also ‘very attentive’ to his situation and are ‘keeping an eye on him’ this summer. Unlike Atletico Madrid, this interest is very new.

While the Spanish side have been interested since the January transfer window, making an offer almost at the end of that window, Everton’s interest is much newer. The newspaper insists no sides have made an offer yet, but the Dane is eyeing Everton.

atlético everton

Unfortunately for him, if it comes down to a straight choice between Everton and Atletico, Hjulmand would prefer to go to Spain.

This is no surprise as Simeone’s team can offer Champions League football. Everton will not participate in any European competition after defeats in the final weeks of the season.

In fact, this move by Everton would be a bold move to say the least. Morten Hjulmand has been linked with a move to some of Europe’s biggest clubs over the past year.

Last summer it was Juventus, now it’s Atletico Madrid. Real Madrid are also reportedly keen. Arsenal and Manchester United have also been named as fans in the Premier League in successive reports.

But A Bola insists they are in the mix and keeping an eye on what is happening with the Sporting midfielder.

#Everton #attentive #midfielders #situation #player #sights #big #competition

Crystal Palace move to secure midfielder’s future – growing feeling the decision came too late

crystal Palace Jefferson has moved to activate Lerma’s contract renewal option. However, there are increasing signs that the decision may have come too late.

last week, report from spain Claims were made that Lerma was preparing to become a free agent and was looking for the final major contract of his career. There were also suggestions that he would prefer to leave English football unless a major offer from the Premier League came along.

Now it appears that Palace are reacting to the situation by triggering the extension clause in his contract. However, the increasing level of interest in the 31-year-old means the club may still face a battle to keep hold of him.

This is according to a Colombian journalist pipe sierraWho reports that several clubs are now showing keen interest in the midfielder. This comes after he entered the final month of his deal at Selhurst Park.

European interest is growing

bolavip colombia Lerma is expected to decide his future with Colombia after the World Cup. Unless there are some big surprises in the coming weeks, this is the likely timeline.

The report again states that the midfielder rejected Crystal Palace’s renewal offer despite helping the club achieve another trophy by winning the UEFA Conference League. Furthermore, Valencia and Sevilla continue to be named as interested clubs from Spain.

Lerma’s situation soon became one of the more delicate contract matters at the Palace. The club clearly values ​​his experience and impact, especially after another successful campaign. However, it appears the midfielder now has realistic options elsewhere.

Lerma is also recognized for his involvement in some of the most important titles in Crystal Palace’s history. According to the Colombian outlet, the midfielder helped the Eagles win the FA Cup, Community Shield and Conference League.

Daniel Munoz has also been mentioned as another Palace player attracting transfer attention ahead of the World Cup, with Colombia expecting both players to remain starting players for the national team.

Pipe Sierra also shed light on Lerma’s position in England. The Crystal Palace player is now the most decorated Colombian footballer in English football, having made 303 appearances with Bournemouth and Palace.

Despite injury problems this season, Lerma remained a key figure in the team. His future is now going to be one of the major decisions for Palace after the World Cup.

#Crystal #Palace #move #secure #midfielders #future #growing #feeling #decision #late

Manchester United confident of signing pair – 2 midfielders named

Manchester United On his target list for the summer are Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali and Atalanta’s Ederson.

The Premier League side are keen to improve their midfield, especially with the impending exit of Casemiro. Manuel Ugarte could be out after a limited role under Michael Carrick.

Manchester United are eyeing a number of targets, including the Newcastle United star and the 26-year-old Brazilian.

On 8 May, Game Witness Covered claims from Italy The Red Devils are ready to make a suitable offer to lure Tonali away from Newcastle United.

Later that day, we broadcast news They are also ready to break the €40m barrier for the La Dea star.

Manchester United are keen to sign the pair

The Old Trafford club are planning to sign both Sandro Tonali and Ederson in the upcoming window.

This is what the Italian journalist says Gianluca Di MarzioAnd he revealed Manchester United are ‘aiming for a double deal’.

The English club are looking to bring the 26-year-old Newcastle United player and South American to Old Trafford as they look to strengthen their midfield.

Atletico Madrid have long maintained an interest in the Atalanta man. The La Liga team is likely to miss out as the Red Devils lead the transfer race. Ederson will leave after the Serie A team’s clash against Fiorentina on Friday.

‘There is confidence in a double deal,’ explains Di Marzio. However, the journalist does not provide any further updates on what makes Manchester United optimistic.

Atalanta finished their season on Friday, two days before Manchester United and Newcastle United. There may be further progress in both these cases after this week.

Contract, price and agent information

Sandro Tonali will have two years left on his Newcastle United contract in the summer. its value, according to transfer marketIs €80m.

With contract until 2027, same website prices Ederson €40m.

Agencies GR Sports and Link Sports manage Italy International and Atalanta Man respectively.

#Manchester #United #confident #signing #pair #midfielders #named

Manchester City discussing midfielder’s path – CFG want deal before World Cup

of manchester city When it comes to midfielder Pedro Vaite the extensive scouting operation appears to be going beyond simple monitoring.

Latest reports suggest that discussions are already taking place over where the Ecuadorian international will fit into the City football group setup.

The 24-year-old has quickly become one of the standout names linked to the group following recent scouting activity in Mexico.

As covered earlierRepresentatives from City Football Group traveled to the country earlier this month to watch matches and meet with local contacts. At the time, no one publicly attached specific names to the voyage. However, this has changed very rapidly.

as of now TUDN MexicoCity Football Group are still pushing to sign Pedro Vitae ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

And interestingly, the conversation already seems to be moving beyond whether they want him.

Discussion is already on the way

The latest claims suggest that internal talks are now taking place over where exactly Pedro Vitae will play within the City Football Group structure if the move goes ahead.

Verona, New York City FC, Troyes and Palermo have all been mentioned as possible landing spots. However, the report also leaves the door slightly open to the possibility of something bigger.

Manchester City themselves are not completely out of the picture.

This still seems like the least likely route, and it is important to emphasize that most of the reporting has focused on the wider CFG network rather than Pep Guardiola’s immediate plans. Still, the noteworthy thing is that this possibility is also being mentioned internally.

Usually, when these stories first come out, the discussion is simply about scouting or interest. It already seems a little further down the road.

Why does white matter to CFG?

Pedro Witte joined Pumas UNAM from Vancouver Whitecaps in July 2025 and quickly rose to Liga MX status.

The Ecuador international has become one of the Pumas’ most important creative players. He primarily plays as an attacking midfielder. However, he is comfortable moving into more central areas to dictate the game.

Technically fast, left-footed and agile in tight spaces, he fits the profile that groups regularly target in many leagues.

The reported valuation is currently around €14m (£12m), which would become a record sale for Pumas UNAM.

the sooner the better

According to reports, City Football Group wants to move ahead before the World Cup. This is because they expect Pedro Vitesse’s value to increase if Ecuador has a strong tournament and performs well.

This has become a familiar tactic for multi-club groups and elite sides alike. Their goal is to complete the deal before the global headlines push the price higher.

At this stage, there is still no confirmation of formal negotiations or a final decision as to which club will acquire him.

Still, the tone is changing toward this early stage of a deal.

#Manchester #City #discussing #midfielders #path #CFG #deal #World #Cup

“I have dreams” – Liverpool and Arsenal’s interest mentioned when addressing the midfielder’s future

liverpool And armory Both have been named among clubs pursuing Victor Froholdt in recent weeks. However, the FC Porto midfielder insisted his focus is on staying in Portugal for the time being.

The Denmark international has become one of the breakout stories of the Portuguese season. Frohold has played 49 matches in all competitions, scoring eight goals and adding seven assists, while helping Porto regain the league title under manager Francesco Farioli.

That form has naturally drawn increased Premier League attention.

Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle United have all been linked With the midfielder in recent weeks. Clubs have been repeatedly named as fans in reports from Denmark and Portugal.

Chelsea were actually the club most strongly linked with Frohold before this latest interview surfaced. The main reason for this was Uncertainty regarding Enzo Fernandez At Stamford Bridge.

Meanwhile, gunner, Scouts have already been seen He continues to closely monitor the Dane’s progress in recent Porto matches.

But now Liverpool and Arsenal have been exclusively brought directly to the player during an interview to ball. Despite this, Frohold made it clear that he is trying to quell the growing noise over his future.

“I will stay at Porto next season”

Froholdt was asked directly if he could commit to staying at Porto for another season despite the increased attention from England. The midfielder stopped giving guarantees. However, his answer left no doubt about his current thinking.

“In football you can never make any promises, you can never predict the market,” He said. “But what I want is to stay here. That’s the plan.”

The 20-year-old doubled down on that stance when discussing Porto’s return to the Champions League.

“I love being here and I would love to play in the UEFA Champions League with this badge.” Froholdt said, pointing to the Porto badge. “I am very happy here and I would love to play here next season. Of course I will be at Dragão next season.”

Later in the interview, he was asked again if it was fair to say that his full focus remained on Porto despite transfer rumours.

“It’s like I said, football is one of those sports that you can never be 100% sure about, but in my mind, next season I will be at Dragão.”

Liverpool and Arsenal mentioned directly

After this the talks moved towards the interest of the Premier League. Liverpool and Arsenal were specifically named by the interviewer as clubs reportedly interested in signing him.

Froholdt again tried to distance himself from speculation rather than promote it.

“No,” When asked if he had any dream league or dream club in mind, he replied. “To be fair I accept things when they happen.”

“It makes me happy to see that people are following me and to know that fans appreciate my work,” he explained. “I focus on the feedback I get from the coaches, the team and what I can do on the pitch.”

“I keep everything else away from where I am now, because I am here playing for FC Porto and I am not focused on anything else.”He said.

A scary release clause

Froholdt was also asked about his £73m (€85m) release clause, which has become a major talking point in Portugal amid interest from England’s biggest clubs.

The midfielder laughed, trying to avoid sounding self-deprecating.

“It’s hard to value yourself,” He accepted. “That’s a lot of money.”

Yet, he also admitted that one day he has ambitions beyond Portugal.

“Obviously I have dreams. I love playing here at FC Porto, but I also dream of playing for some of the best clubs in the world.”

However, for now, the message coming from the player has been remarkably calm despite the mounting pressure around him.

Liverpool and Arsenal will be watching closely, Chelsea will still be looming due to the Enzo Fernandez situation, and Newcastle will also remain in the wider picture, but Froholdt is insisting his plan is to stay where he is.

#dreams #Liverpool #Arsenals #interest #mentioned #addressing #midfielders #future

From Paraguay: Brighton midfielder’s injury worsens after scans – further tests are now scheduled

brighton and hove albion There is a fresh concern after Diego Gomez suffered an injury early in Sunday’s game against Tottenham, adding to the uncertainty over his midfield plans at a crucial stage of the season.

The Paraguayan’s importance is increasing for Brighton, especially as Fabian Herzeler continues to rely on energy and ball progression from central areas. Gomez has offered that balance in recent months, combining forward running and quick distribution with a direct involvement in goals.

Herzeler addressed Gomez’s situation with some positivity on Monday morning, but now the Paraguayan press brings more details.

Latest updates from journalist alvaro aponte This suggests that the situation is somewhat more serious than initially expected.

Medical tests have revealed injury to the meniscus as well as injury-related edema, swelling, and fluid in the knee. There is also mention of ligament involvement in the tibiofibular region, which raises further concern.

Initial estimates point to a recovery period of approximately 4 to 6 weeks. That timeframe is still provisional, as Brighton are expected to conduct further testing within five to seven days to determine the full extent of the damage.

midfield balance is affected

Diego Gomez began to play a visible role in the Brighton team. their ability to cover ground And his attacking performances made him an important part of the team, especially as the fixtures began to pile up.

In his recent appearances, he has shown a willingness to press hard and gain possession quickly. At the same time, he has kept his passing simple and effective, which has helped Brighton maintain momentum in midfield.

Losing that profile, even temporarily, forces Herzeler to rethink the combinations. Brighton already rely heavily on technical midfielders, and Gomez provided a slightly different dynamism – a more physical presence without sacrificing technicality.

what happens next

Diego Gomez now faces a stint in what could be a crucial part of Brighton’s programme. The Club will await follow-up assessment before confirming a definitive recovery plan.

In the short term, Brighton are likely to rely more heavily on their existing midfield options, but this injury could also impact their approach to squad management in the coming weeks. This may also have an impact Other teams are planning to buy him.

For Gomez, the focus will be on recovery and making sure there are no long-term complications. Knee injuries, especially those involving the meniscus and surrounding structures, require careful handling to avoid injuries.

Brighton hopes the next round of tests will bring more clarity – and ideally, better news than currently feared.

#Paraguay #Brighton #midfielders #injury #worsens #scans #tests #scheduled

Chelsea will increase the midfielder’s salary – putting him among the top 3 paid players in the Blues squad

Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo
Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo

chelsea Moving to protect Moises Caicedo beyond the usual contract cycle, more details are emerging from South America on a situation already widely discussed in England.

The Ecuador international has become central to Chelsea’s structure this season. Despite inconsistent results, he has been a consistent presence in midfield.

His minutes underscore that importance, while his defensive reliability and passing volume keep the team strong.

That role explains why Chelsea are now acting quickly. Instead of waiting for the pressure to build, they are trying to remove it completely.

Contract extension driven by situation, not urgency

journalists cesar louis merlo And jose alberto molestina – Both experts on the South American market – outline the full picture Havoline Deportivo.

Moises Caicedo’s current deal already runs until 2031, which raises an obvious question.

Merlo addressed this directly:

“What Chelsea are doing is giving him a salary commensurate with the value of Caicedo, who is one of the best central midfielders in the world.” he explained.

“There are still some small details missing, but everything is in place for Moises Caicedo to extend his contract with Chelsea until June 2033. His current contract runs until 2031.”

This means it is about linking his salary with his importance and removing any future stress.

“So that he remains calm, so that there is no conflict… and if a club comes with a big offer, Caicedo becomes more relaxed and any possible exit is more harmonious and agreeable.”

The midfielder himself recently He said he wants to ‘stay as long as possible’So all roads ultimately lead to Chelsea.

Outside interest and Chelsea reaction

Molestina gave further details, particularly on how other clubs have affected the situation.

“I think Moyi will become one of the top three highest-paid players in the team, which is very important.”

He then pointed to growing attention from elsewhere:

“There are clubs that have started to ask about Moises, about his situation, especially considering that Chelsea’s sporting moment is not the best.”

That notion has evoked a clear internal reaction:

“They basically said: ‘No, no, no, let’s secure the players we want long-term.'”

In other words, Chelsea have already recognized the risk and decided to take action before it became more serious.

Relationship with the agency and long-term control

At this stage Moises Caicedo and Chelsea are in an alliance. The player is said to be happy at the club, wanna be a legend out thereAnd there is no current intention on the part of either party to proceed with the transfer.

At the same time, the structure around it has also played a role. His new agency, Base, has a strong relationship with Chelsea, which has helped with smooth discussions.

Merlo explained that dynamic:

“Chelsea have a very good relationship with the base… Obviously when each side has to defend their position, they will, but the idea is to avoid any friction or problems.”

This is part of a broader strategy. Chelsea wishes to reduce the possibility of future disputes, whether internal or motivated by external interest.

This is a move to cement Moises Caicedo’s place at the club as well as enhance his position within the team.

At the same time, they are also building security into that commitment. If interest continues to grow, as expected, any negotiations will take place from a position of strength.

For a player who is already viewed internally as one of the best in his role, this move reflects long-term planning rather than a short-term reaction.

#Chelsea #increase #midfielders #salary #putting #among #top #paid #players #Blues #squad

Manchester United and Liverpool ‘breathtaking’ midfielders – ideal for both – €1bn release clause

Aurélien Tchoumeni

Manchester United and Liverpool have set their sights on Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchoumenyi for the summer, with Aurelien Tchoumenyi being repeatedly linked with a move recently.

The France international joins La Liga side AS Monaco in June 2022 for €70m plus €10m bonuses.

Before the move, Liverpool showed strong interest but ultimately lost the battle to Real Madrid. At that time, sports witness Covered claims from France That the Reds wanted to make a bid.

The Merseyside club are now back for the midfielder and face a potential battle with Manchester United.

He has been a regular player for the La Liga team in recent years and has played 3,379 minutes in 39 matches this season.

His La Liga statistics per game this season are as follows:

  • Interception: 1.3
  • Tackle: 2.2
  • Possession won (final third): 0.3
  • Recovered balls: 4.7
  • Clearance: 1.7
  • Blocked Shots: 0.4
  • Ground duels won: 3.1
  • Aerial duel won: 2.3

Manchester United and Liverpool keen

Aurelien Tchoumeni’s impressive performances for Real Madrid this season clearly have not gone unnoticed.

This is as per Wednesday’s edition gameWho names both Manchester United and Liverpool as his suitors.

Premier League pair view defensive midfielder as a go-to player ‘The ideal piece to strengthen their midfield’.

Therefore, the Red Devils and Arne Slot’s side are tempting him for a summer move. To do this, both clubs are considering significant offers without mentioning figures.

Los Blancos, on the other hand, are unwilling to sell and instead, want to give the star a three-year extension.

Another Spanish newspaper, MarkMakes no mention of Liverpool, Manchester United or any other club. However, they have a report on his development and Real Madrid’s plans.

Tchoumeni has received support from every Real Madrid manager he has played under so far. Considering his development and performances this season, the Spanish giants consider him non-transferable.

This will complicate Manchester United and Liverpool’s efforts to lure him in the summer.

Contract, price and agent information

Aurelien Tchoumeni will have two years left on his contract after the season and could receive a new contract from Real Madrid.

transfer market He is now valued at €75m, which is €25m less than his highest value in June 2024. He is represented by French agency Excellence Sport Nation, who also manage Manchester United’s Brian Mbeumo.

The Frenchman has a €1bn release clause, and understandably so. No club will trigger it.


#Manchester #United #Liverpool #breathtaking #midfielders #ideal #1bn #release #clause

De Zerbi named the midfielder’s arrival at the Tottenham meeting – the player he wants if relegation is avoided

Roberto De Zerbi is said to want Manuel Locatelli at Tottenham
Roberto De Zerbi is said to want Manuel Locatelli at Tottenham

A big reason behind Manuel Locatelli’s success as a footballer is Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi.

The two could now potentially be reunited at Tottenham in the summer.

The Italian has had an impressive season for Juventus and has made a real impression with his ability on the ball.

Currently the club captain, Locatelli has played 39 times in all competitions, and has also contributed five goals. His strength lies in dictating the pace of the game from deep and this skill was evident last season as well.

The 28-year-old had impressive performances at Sassuolo between 2019 and 2021, when they were managed by De Zerbi. The Italian brought out the best of Locatelli’s technical abilities and qualified him for a trip to Turin.

With De Zerbi now at Tottenham, he could bring the midfielder to England.

Locatelli held discussions with Tottenham

IT migration market The report adds that before taking charge at Tottenham, De Zerbi held a major meeting with the London club’s ownership. During that time, he discussed potential transfer targets and his general long-term vision for the club.

He put forward the name of Manuel Locatelli as someone who could help him improve this Spurs side, especially if they avoid relegation.

Avoiding relegation is De Zerbi’s main objective at the moment but the Italian is already making some plans for the future.

Locatelli’s current contract at Juve expires in 2028. Even though the Old Lady have attempted to make progress on a renewal, nothing has officially happened and this could give other clubs a big opportunity in the summer.

sports witness Manchester United’s relationship with the player has been covered, with the Red Devils’ scouts having been impressed by his impact this season.

Our opinion: Locatelli would be an excellent signing for Spurs

Throughout the season, Tottenham lacked a technically proficient midfielder who could beat the press, dictate play and advance the ball. Conor Gallagher was signed in January but is the complete opposite in profile.

Locatelli, meanwhile, is a perfect fit. De Zerbi knows this, as he watched the player operate in the midfield two during his time at Sassuolo. That’s when Locatelli really reached a new level, showing how his passing ability can really escape the opposition press.

That’s what Tottenham will need under the Italian, who always demands elite players. Locatelli is 28 years old, in his prime and has quickly become a very reliable leader.

Spurs should not hesitate to sign him if the opportunity arises.


#Zerbi #named #midfielders #arrival #Tottenham #meeting #player #relegation #avoided

From Brazil: Big development – Manchester United reconsidering exit after midfielder’s resurgence

casemiro

Manchester United separation seemed certain With Casemiro at the end of the season. However, the picture has changed in recent weeks.

The midfielder has returned to a high level and has started to impress in big matches again. He has performed decisively and brought stability back to the team.

That race has highlighted what he still has to offer. Casemiro provides leadership, organization and control in midfield. He understands the game well and plays defense well. Additionally, his experience helps the younger players around him. As a result, his role within the team has increased again.

This improvement did not go unnoticed. Just a few weeks ago his departure seemed almost certain. Now, Manchester United is re-evaluating that situation. The Brazilian has reminded the club why he was signed in the first place.

Manchester United reconsidering exit as renewal talks unfold

According to a Brazilian outlet report RTI gameUnited have resumed internal discussions regarding Casemiro’s future.

The club now sees him as a useful and reliable option again. This leaves room for talks over a potential renewal, even though their current deal runs until June 2026.

Still, any agreement will depend on finances. Casemiro earns around £350,000 per week, one of the highest salaries in the team.

Manchester United wants to reduce The figure comes as part of a broader salary adjustment. Therefore the conversation will not be straightforward.

Brazil’s plans foiled by Casemiro’s rejection of return

At the same time, interest from Brazil has not stopped. his former club Sao Paulo contacted One more time to explore a possible move after the 2026 World Cup.

This time, the club’s football coordinator – ex-Bayern Munich right-back Rafinha – approached Casemiro’s representatives to hammer out the terms of a deal.

However, the response was clear. Casemiro does not plan to return to Brazil at this stage and has hinted at an opportunity to remain in England. His priority is to play at a high level abroad. That stance has frustrated Brazil’s hopes of bringing him back in the near future.

Other options remain open

casemiro manchester united
BILBAO, SPAIN: 05 17 2025: Casemiro is seen during the UEFA Europa League 2025 final game between Tottenham Hotspur FC and Manchester United FC.

Even after Manchester United returned, other clubs continued to monitor the situation. The Brazilian report that Inter Miami have shown interest, while Al-Nassr represents a strong option from Saudi Arabia.

Those offers could prove economically attractive, especially in the Saudi market. Nevertheless, Casemiro’s improved form and his family’s preference to remain in Europe could influence the result. Instability in the Middle East will also be a reason.

The situation has clearly changed for Manchester United. What once seemed like a certain exit has turned into an open decision. Now a lot will depend on whether both sides are able to reach a consensus in the coming months or not.


#Brazil #Big #development #Manchester #United #reconsidering #exit #midfielders #resurgence

Crystal Palace’s concerns increased – Colombian media worried about midfielder’s injury

Crystal Palace midfielder Jefferson Lerma has caused deep concern in Colombia after his recent injury, with journalist Carlos Antonio Vélez giving a candid assessment. rcn sports.

Velez made it clear how important the 30-year-old is to both club and country. He said: “What’s happening with Lerma seriously concerns me. Lerma is the balancing point of the team.”

The Colombian international will be out of the competition for three weeks or more, and Crystal Palace’s poor form has further fueled the discussion domestically.

“That’s what gives balance”

Vélez did not hide his concern about the situation at Crystal Palace. He cited the club’s recent record and suggested that pressure was building at Selhurst Park.

He said: “He has been injured. It doesn’t surprise me, because as much workload as he has with the national team, he also has with his club. This is a team that has only won one in the last sixteen matches.”

In his view, there are consequences beyond the results of that race. he adds: “A team that is performing poorly takes away good players. When a team is not performing well, the good players fade away.”

For Crystal Palace supporters, that line will resonate. Lerma arrived from Bournemouth in 2023 and quickly became one of the team’s most reliable performers. However, the instability around them has made their role even heavier.

Vélez also highlighted Lerma’s tactical versatility. he explained: “He has played as a five, as an eight, even as a centre-back in a back three. He has served the team in every role.”

That flexibility has also made him valuable to Colombia. Velez used a fascinating metaphor to make this point: “In the national team, he is the one who gives balance. He is the guardian of the mosque. He protects the stone. He is responsible for the balance of Colombia.”

Concerns about the World Cup are already emerging

local journalist Juan Felipe CadavidSpeaking on the same Deportes RCN program, he took a lighter tone but made the same underlying point about the timing.

He said: “Okay, it’s time for Lerma to get injured, no? Later, he’d better not joke for the World Cup. But now, okay, go and rest, take a little injury if you want, as long as it’s not serious at all. Later, don’t talk nonsense. We need him for the World Cup.”

With the tournament taking place in the middle of the year, Colombia’s message is clear. Injuries could be a concern not only for Palace, but also for the national team who see Lerma as a guaranteed starter.

From the palace’s perspective, this underlines the scale of responsibility on their shoulders. When results fall apart, structure becomes necessary. Lerma provides that structure.

If his absence is prolonged, Crystal Palace have lost not only a midfielder, but what many in Colombia openly describe as a team stabilizing force.

#Crystal #Palaces #concerns #increased #Colombian #media #worried #midfielders #injury