Patrice Evra in talks over a move to Crystal Palace as Juventus star prefers return to Premier League over Valencia switch
Sam Allardyce sees 35-year-old wantaway Frenchman as solution to leaky defence in battle to avoid relegation
CRYSTAL PALACE are the Premier League frontrunners to sign wantaway Juventus star Patrice Evra.
The 35-year-old is looking to leave the Serie A champions after losing his place in the side and falling out with manager Max Allegri.
A return to Manchester United had been mooted, while West Ham — who are in the process of returning Simone Zaza to Juventus early following a disappointing loan spell — were another potential avenue for the Frenchman.
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Evra had been in talks over a move to Valencia, but prefers a comeback to the Premier League.
And it is understood talks are underway over a switch to Selhurst Park.
He was left out of the squad for Juventus’ weekend victory over Bologna and has played just 247 minutes this season.
Despite winning back-to-back titles in Italy Evra clashed with Allegri in recent weeks, with the pair involved in a furious row following the defeat to AC Milan in the Italian Super Cup final.
The Juve hierarchy are also less-than-pleased with the former Monaco and United star’s growing social media profile, which has coincided with a massive dip in form.
Sam Allardyce has prioritised improving Palace’s leaky defence, and sees the former France captain’s experience as invaluable.
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Evra has played in five Champions League finals, as well as the Euro 2016 showpiece and knows the Premier League well, having won it on five occasions.
The Eagles are just one place and one point above the relegation zone.
Evra is seen as the perfect fit at left-back, with Pape Souare still sidelined.