According to TBR Football, the two clubs are hoping to sign the Nigerian international midfielder on a bargain. The player has a £9 million release clause in his contract, and he could prove to be an excellent acquisition for Crystal Palace and Everton.
Crystal Palace could certainly use more quality and depth in the middle of the park, and signing the experienced defensive midfielder would be a wise decision. The reported asking price is quite nominal, and he could prove to be an excellent addition at that price.
The player will not only help Crystal Palace tighten up defensively, but he will also allow the creative players to operate with more freedom. He has the quality and the experience to make an instant impact at the London club.
Similarly, Everton need a reliable defensive midfielder as well. Abdoulaye Doucoure will be out of contract in the summer, and Ndidi could be a quality alternative. He is well settled in the Premier League, and the opportunity to join clubs like Crystal Palace or Everton will be quite exciting for him. He will not want to compete in the Championship with the Foxes.
The 28-year-old is at the peak of his career, and he is too good to compete in the second division of English football.
It will be interesting to see which of the two clubs comes forward with an official offer to sign the midfielder in the coming weeks. They have the resources to get the deal done, and whoever ends up signing the Nigerian could have a real bargain on their hands.
Both Crystal Palace and Everton have looked vulnerable defensively this season, and signing Ndidi could help them improve. They will be hoping to have a successful season next year, and they need to plug the gaps on their side during the summer transfer window. Organising their defensive unit should be a priority for them this summer. A defensive midfielder will help shield the back four and help them stay organised defensively.
