Crystal Palace Eyes Move for Midfielder Lionel Messi Compared to Xavi
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Crystal Palace are exploring the possibility of signing a midfielder who Lionel Messi once compared to the legendary Xavi.
Manager Oliver Glasner has already secured some strong signings, including Chadi Riad and Daichi Kamada, with Ryan Sessegnon also likely to join. However, Glasner is keen to further strengthen his squad, particularly in midfield, before the transfer window closes.
Messi’s Praise for Arthur Melo
Crystal Palace are reportedly interested in Juventus midfielder Arthur Melo. The Brazilian, who spent last season on loan at Fiorentina, is not in Juventus manager Thiago Motta’s plans for the upcoming season.
Lionel Messi once drew comparisons between Melo and his former Barcelona teammate Xavi, praising Melo’s playing style. In an interview with Sport 45 in Spain, Messi said, “Arthur I didn’t know that much about but he seems similar to Xavi. He’s very safe and trustworthy. He has the La Masia style. Playing short passes, without losing the ball, and he grasped it quickly, the dynamic of the team.”
Melo’s Potential Fit at Palace
While Melo excels in passing and maintaining possession, his defensive contributions and dribbling are less impressive. Glasner’s system demands high intensity and versatility from midfielders, which may limit Melo’s fit within the squad.
With players like Adam Wharton, Cheick Doucoure, Jefferson Lerma, and Will Hughes already established, bringing in another high-earning midfielder might not be the most strategic move for Palace.
Conclusion
Arthur Melo’s technical skills and ball control are highly regarded, but his overall fit within Crystal Palace’s dynamic and high-intensity system is uncertain. Despite Messi’s high praise and comparisons to Xavi, Palace may need to consider a more well-rounded midfielder to complement their current lineup.
