Crystal Palace to activate Andros Townsend release clause

Crystal Palace are deemed favourites to sign Andros Townsend after they decided to trigger the release clause in his Newcastle United contract. The England international has been tipped to leave the Tyneside outfit following their relegation to the Championship.

Townsend, 24, joined the Magpies from Tottenham Hotspur in January, and produced a couple of memorable performances, but this was not enough to keep the side above the drop zone.

The likes of Watford, West Bromwich and Southampton have all been linked with Townsend's signature in recent weeks, but according to Sky Sports News, it is the Eagles who are in pole position to land his services.

Alan Pardew's side have yet to make a formal approach, but it is thought that they will meet the player's £13m escape clause.

Palace are also in the hunt for Marseille striker Michy Batshuayi.