Crystal Palace complete deal for Chadi Riad

Crystal Palace have won the race to sign Barcelona defender Chadi Riad, from under the noses of several top European sides. It is understood that Bayern Munich and Chelsea were even considering a move, but the Morocco international has opted for a transfer to Selhurst Park in a deal worth around 10 million euros.

Riad spent last season on loan at La Liga rivals Real Betis, and prior to that had been playing for Barcelona's B team. 26 appearances in La Liga followed for Betis during his loan spell, and essentially become a starting member of the club's first XI towards the end of the season.

Palace have said Riad to a five-year contract and are confident that the player will add sufficient depth to their squad ahead of the new campaign.

Joachim Andersen and Marc Guehi have struck up an excellent partnership at the heart of Crystal Palace's defence, but there are concerns an impressive Euro 2024 tournament for Guehi could spell the end of the player's run at the Eagles. Man Utd have been linked with a transfer for Guehi.