Crystal Palace and Leeds United are gearing up for a fascinating Premier League showdown next season, and there’s one ageing hitman at the centre of transfer speculation. Both clubs know they need firepower to survive and thrive, and the summer window—opening June 1—is already brimming with rumour and intrigue.
Leeds boss Daniel Farke has been quietly assembling a wishlist of strikers after guiding the Whites back to the top flight. With his own position under scrutiny since promotion, the German coach cannot afford another false dawn—a slow start might see him on the chopping block despite last season’s success.
Meanwhile, Palace’s post-FA Cup win momentum has sparked whispers that they too want to reinforce up front. As the Eagles plot their next move, one name keeps cropping up: veteran Leicester City star Jamie Vardy.
Shock swoop? Palace eye veteran Vardy on free
Journalist Pete O’Rourke has claimed that Crystal Palace are seriously weighing up a free transfer for 38-year-old Jamie Vardy. It’s a move that would raise eyebrows, but Palace’s boldness after their FA Cup triumph suggests they won’t shy away from surprises.
Other suitors, including Major League Soccer outfits and newly promoted Wrexham, have shown interest in the Premier League legend. Yet, according to insiders, Palace see Vardy’s experience and instinct in the box as a perfect match for their ambitions.
In my view, it would be a daring gamble for Roy Hodgson’s men—pairing youth and flair with the clinical instincts of a seasoned goalscorer. If Palace pull it off, it could be the coup of the summer.
Leeds United’s scramble for that elusive No.9
Farke’s priority is bolstering his attack, with Patrick Bamford’s future uncertain and Mateo Joseph attracting interest from Real Betis. Leeds need a reliable goal threat, and they’ve cast their net wide for proven finishers.
Troy Parrott of AZ Alkmaar has been linked to Elland Road, though progress on that front has been slow. The former Tottenham youngster would represent a budget-friendly option, but at this stage Leeds are exploring multiple avenues.
Everton’s Beto and Celtic’s Daizen Maeda also feature on the Whites’ radar, though both deals look tricky. Besiktas are keen on Beto, while Maeda could demand a hefty fee—estimated around £25m. It’s a test of Leeds’s ambition and Farke’s recruiting prowess to land the right man before the window shuts.
