Last-minute surprise in the summer market. Crytal Palace is close to completing the signing of Christantus Uche, a Nigerian attacking midfielder from Getafe, for 20 million euros.

As reported by AS newspaper, the 22-year-old player is already traveling to London to finalize the last details and become a new member of Oliver Glasner's team, the current champion of the FA Cup and the Community Shield.

Christantus Uche, a reliable midfield reinforcement

The arrival of Uche meets Jean-Philippe Mateta's need for reinforcement in the creation and attack rotation area. The Nigerian can play both attacking midfielder and striker, providing alternatives to players like Yeremy Pino, Daichi Kamada, or Ismaila Sarr.

His profile perfectly fits what Glasner was looking for: youth, potential, and playmaking ability. At just 22 years old, he already has experience in LaLiga, where he has been one of the most outstanding players for Getafe, and also in the Nigerian national team, where he aims to be a key player in the upcoming Africa Cup.

The transfer marks an unexpected turn in the career of Christantus Uche, who seemed destined to stay in Spain after an unsuccessful attempt by Wolverhampton to sign him. However, the interest from several Premier League clubs reignited his exit.

Brentford, Fulham, and Leeds United showed interest in the striker, while a German and a Mexican club also inquired about his situation. Ultimately, Palace's determination was decisive. 

One of the debated points about the signing has been Uche's participation in the Africa Cup, a tournament to be held between December and January in Morocco. As a prominent figure for Nigeria, the forward could be absent for almost two months, a situation that deterred some suitors.

Crystal Palace, however, has decided to take the risk, trusting that the player's contribution will compensate for any temporary absence. For the London team, his arrival is the cherry on top of the transfer market after the addition of Yeremy Pino from Villarreal.

The sale of Christantus Uche provides financial relief for Getafe, allowing them to register new signings and close pending deals. Among them is the arrival of Kamara, the winger from Hull City, who is awaiting official confirmation.

For the blue club, the departure of the Nigerian is not only a sporting loss but also an opportunity to reorganize the squad in the final days of the market.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Christantus Uche se va a la Premier: Un equipo acelera por su fichaje