CRYSTAL PALACE remain focused on Eddie Nketiah — in case his move to Germany falls through.
The Eagles have a long-term interest in the Arsenal forward, 22.
But his camp have their sights on a free transfer switch to the Bundesliga and a major payday.
Nketiah is yet to have a concrete offer, though, and the Eagles are hovering as he is a player they admire and could move for him in this window or next summer.
Palace transfer guru Dougie Freedman watched Nketiah net a hat-trick in Arsenal’s 5-1 Carabao Cup win over Sunderland last week.
Speaking after his goal scoring exploits in the Cup, Nketiah reitterated his desire to play more football.
He said: "I'm eager to play football and I’m at Arsenal to give my all.
"This competition has given me opportunities to play.
Most read in Football
SAVED! 
How surgery transformed 'ugly' scorpion kick keeper Higuita – he's SO different now
Ronaldo trolled by Fernandes and Matic after losing Man Utd training game
Ex Premier League star ordered to pay £22,400 to man who found his dog
Man Utd Treble winner looks unrecognisable with long hair and beard
EPIC DOWNTIME
IS your downtime as epic as it could be?
You can get 50 free spins at PokerStars Casino. Boom.
Click HERE for all the details.
T&Cs apply. 18+ Play responsibly. BeGambleAware.org
FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN NEW CUSTOMER DEALS
"I’m desperate to play football, every player wants to play.
"All I can do is work hard and it will work itself out."
The Eagles are open to ending the loan of striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, who has failed to fire since joining from Mainz.
But they would not want to lose him without a replacement lined up.
⚽ Get all the latest Arsenal news, updates and transfer gossip with our live blogs
Source: Read Full Article