Crystal Palace striker Jordan Ayew is on the verge of joining Leicester City after the two clubs agreed on an £8 million deal, including add-ons. The 32-year-old forward, who has been a key player for Palace over the past few seasons, is currently undergoing a medical with the Foxes, signaling the imminent completion of the transfer. This move comes as Ayew enters the final year of his contract at Selhurst Park, with Crystal Palace opting to cash in on the experienced striker amid the emergence of Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Leicester’s Long-Standing Interest in Ayew
Leicester City’s pursuit of Jordan Ayew has been one of the more prominent transfer sagas of the summer. The Foxes identified the Ghanaian international as a key target early in the transfer window, with manager Enzo Maresca keen to add his experience and versatility to the squad. Ayew, who can play across the forward line, offers a blend of physicality, work rate, and goal-scoring ability, qualities that Leicester believe will strengthen their attacking options.
The Foxes have been looking to bolster their squad following a challenging season in the Premier League. After narrowly avoiding relegation, Leicester are determined to rebuild and avoid another difficult campaign.
Ayew’s Time at Crystal Palace
Jordan Ayew joined Crystal Palace in 2018, initially on loan from Swansea City, before making the move permanent in the summer of 2019. Over the past five years, Ayew has become a key figure at Selhurst Park, known for his tireless work ethic, ability to hold up the ball, and knack for scoring important goals. His most notable season came in 2019-20 when he was named Crystal Palace’s Player of the Year after scoring nine goals in the Premier League.
However, despite his contributions, Ayew has found it increasingly difficult to maintain a starting role under Patrick Vieira. The emergence of Jean-Philippe Mateta, who has been in fine form, has seen Ayew’s opportunities become more limited. With his contract set to expire at the end of the current season, Palace decided it was the right time to part ways with the veteran striker, especially given the financial incentive of an £8 million transfer fee.
The Financial Implications for Palace
For Crystal Palace, the decision to sell Ayew is driven by both financial and tactical considerations. The £8 million fee, while modest by Premier League standards, represents a good return for a player in the final year of his contract and allows the club to reinvest in other areas of the squad. Additionally, with Mateta’s rise and the presence of other attacking options like Odsonne Edouard and Eberechi Eze, Palace felt they could afford to let Ayew go without significantly weakening their squad.
Ayew’s departure could also signal a shift in how Vieira intends to set up his team. Mateta’s presence as a more traditional number nine offers Palace a different focal point in attack, one that could allow them to play more direct and capitalize on the physicality and aerial threat that Mateta brings. This move could lead to a more dynamic and varied approach in the final third, with players like Eze and Michael Olise providing creativity and flair around Mateta’s hold-up play.
Ayew Brings to Leicester
For Leicester City, Ayew’s arrival could be a game-changer. His versatility means he can operate across the front line, whether as a central striker, a wide forward, or even in a deeper role. This flexibility will be invaluable to Enzo Maresca, especially in a season where squad depth will be crucial.
Ayew’s experience in the Premier League is another key asset. Having played over 200 matches in the top flight, Ayew knows the demands of the league and has consistently performed against top opposition. His work rate and ability to press from the front align well with the high-intensity style of play that Leicester are likely to employ under Maresca. Additionally, Ayew’s ability to score crucial goals, particularly in tight matches, could make him a vital player for Leicester as they aim to improve their standing in the league.
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