"A lot of takers" - Pundit says Crystal Palace face fight to sign "monster" Steve Parish wants

Crystal Palace could face a real fight to sign Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek this summer, believes former Premier League player Carlton Palmer.

Palace chairman Steve Parish recently suggested that the south London club are open to the idea of bringing the 26-year-old back to Selhurst Park, but Palmer thinks there will be a lot of takers for him if Chelsea decide to sell.

Loftus-Cheek spent the 2017/18 season out on loan at the Eagles, and Parish has made it clear that the England international would be welcome back.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror about both Loftus-Cheek and Conor Gallagher last month, Parish said: “If there’s an opportunity to get him [Gallagher] or even Ruben Loftus-Cheek then of course. These are top players.”

The Chelsea star has not been an automatic starter under Thomas Tuchel this term; however, he has still appeared in over 30 games for the Blues.

It means the German may not be open to letting him go this summer, but if Loftus-Cheek wants more minutes, then a departure is something he may have to consider.

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If Loftus-Cheek does decide to leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season, Palmer thinks Palace will have to see off competition to sign him.

On the Chelsea academy graduate, the ex-Leeds United and Southampton midfielder told GIVEMESPORT: “I think there’ll be a lot of takers for Loftus-Cheek.

“Crystal Palace have done well, and they’re a good solid club. But where are they going to go to? And that’s what Loftus-Cheek has got a look at if he’s going to leave Chelsea.”

Yes. Loftus-Cheek is the kind of player who could bring a lot to Patrick Vieira’s midfield if he remains fit.

At 6 ft 3, he has that physicality,