Vieira could unearth Palace's new Cabaye in 18 y/o magician, he won't cost a penny - opinion

Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira has shown a willingness to put his faith in younger talent so far during his time with the club, giving the captain’s armband to 21-year-old Marc Guehi for three of the last four fixtures in all competitions, also handing significant game-time to the likes of Michael Olise and Tyrik Mitchell.

Meanwhile, 22-year-old Conor Gallagher has shone on loan with the Eagles this season, becoming a key player in the team. He has started all 24 Premier League games for which he has been available, averaging a 7.27 match rating – higher than the likes of Harry Kane (7.26) and Sadio Mane (7.20) – scoring eight goals and setting up three more.

However, with Chelsea’s sanctions including a transfer ban looming over them, the current Champions League holders may choose to keep Gallagher. Palace could then be forced into a midfield rebuild, with James McArthur, Jeffrey Schlupp and Cheikhou Kouyate’s contracts all expiring at the end of the season.

According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Palace and Newcastle are keen on landing Barcelona under-19 captain Marc Casado. He has been likened to legendary defensive midfielder Sergio Busquets, who has been a fixed presence in the Catalan giants’ team for more than a decade now.

The report claimed that while the 18-year-old is keen on a potential extension to his current deal which runs out at the end of the season, nothing has been agreed yet, which could give the Premier League duo the chance to sign him on a free transfer this summer.

Much like Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp, Vieira prefers to play with a holding midfielder in his teams; and with neither Jairo Riedewald nor Luka Milivojevic fully convincing the Frenchman of their ability, Casado could