Crystal Palace Eyeing Move for Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola
Crystal Palace are reportedly preparing to enter negotiations with Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola as they search for a successor to Oliver Glasner, whose contract concludes this June. According to journalist Alan Nixon, the Spanish coach is open to a move and has intentionally delayed contract extension talks with the Cherries to keep his options open.
Iraola’s Growing Reputation
Iraola has seen his stock rise significantly following a successful tenure on the south coast, where he secured 12th and 9th place finishes in his first two seasons. He currently has Bournemouth within striking distance of European qualification, trailing sixth-place Chelsea by only three points.
While Palace initially feared losing out to clubs like Athletic Bilbao or Tottenham (who recently hired Roberto De Zerbi), Iraola is now said to be willing to discuss the upcoming vacancy at Selhurst Park.
Other Names on the Shortlist
The Eagles are casting a wide net, focusing on managers with proven Premier League experience. Along with Iraola, the shortlist includes:
- Thomas Frank: The former Brentford boss is a candidate despite a difficult eight-month stint at Tottenham that ended in February.
- Marco Silva: The Fulham manager is being monitored as his current deal expires at the end of the season.
- Sean Dyche: Currently available following his departure from Nottingham Forest earlier this year.
Bournemouth Holding Out Hope
Despite the intense interest from London, Bournemouth remains hopeful that they can convince their “elite” manager to sign a new deal. However, with Glasner’s exit looming, Crystal Palace appear ready to make a formal move to bring the Spaniard to the capital this summer.
