Manchester United are a team that nurtures youngsters and we’ve had quite a few examples in the past and present. The Red Devils don’t let their talented players leave that often, so it was surprising when they sold Nick Powell to Wigan Athletic in 2016. Powell had a brief spell at Manchester United but spent most of his time out on loan.
Now, it has been reported that Crystal Palace along with other clubs are interested in signing the young forward. Aston Villa and Derby County are also reportedly eager to land Powell and this can prove to be one of the interesting buys in the January transfer window. TEAMtalk claim that a fee in the region of £1.5million could be enough to lure him to Selhurst Park.
Powell – fact file
Nick Powell has seen an inconsistent turn in his career ever since he made his debut for Manchester United. Sir Alex had signed him from Crewe Alexandra in 2012 and the lad was touted for greatness. However, a string of loan spells coupled with United’s already established lineup meant that Powell never got opportunities on a consistent basis.
The Wigan forward can play almost anywhere in the attacking position. He has great positional sense, can create space for other forwards with his off the ball movement and is a good exponent of long-range shots. He is a good passer of the ball and had a decent time at Old Trafford too.
This season, he has been a shining light in the League 1 as his performances have alerted the Premier League as well as the Championship clubs. So far, he has scored 11 goals from his 26 games in all competitions. He has even assisted twice and that makes him a good bet as an attacking midfielder or even as the forward.
Powell has a great eye for the goal and can be very clinical. His tall stature gives him an advantage in the aerial duels too and so overall the lad is talented enough to make the jump to the Premier League.
Why Palace?
Crystal Palace have lacked a consistent goal-scorer in the league this season. Roy Hodgson has done a great job in bringing the team out of the relegation zone yet, there is a lot of work to do, especially up front. The team’s first choice striker, Christian Benteke, has been lacklustre and disappointing in front of the goal.
Benteke has failed to replicate his previous goal-scoring exploits and that has hurt the Eagles a bit. Hodgson can do well with Powell’s pace, agility, and current form. A deal could be struck within a few days as the lad can be back to the league where he once played.
