EXCLUSIVE: Crystal Palace eye perfect January deal for Chelsea’s Mykhailo Mudryk

Crystal Palace have approached Chelsea with interest in signing out-of-favour winger Mykhailo Mudryk on loan in January, in what could be a transformative deal for both player and club.

The potential transfer, led by Palace owner Steve Parish, is seen as a strategic attempt to bring in a game-changer similar to former club legend Wilfried Zaha, who left the Eagles in the summer of 2023.

With Mudryk’s unique skill set and the mounting need for an attacking spark at Selhurst Park, this deal appears to be a win-win scenario for all parties involved.

For Mudryk, a loan to Palace could offer the lifeline he needs to reignite his career.

Signed by Chelsea in January 2023 for a substantial €70 million upfront fee, the Ukraine international has struggled to find his footing in the Premier League. His form has been inconsistent, and he’s often been overlooked in favour of other attacking talents like Pedro Neto, Noni Madueke, and Jadon Sancho.

These challenges have left Mudryk’s career somewhat stalled, making a move vital for both his development and his future with Chelsea.

For Chelsea, sending the 23-year-old on loan across London, rather than further afield, aligns with the club’s goal to see him adapt and flourish in English football. The transition from Ukraine to the Premier League is challenging, and staying in London would offer him stability and a familiar environment while enabling him to focus on regaining form.

Palace get their Olise replacement

Crystal Palace have been searching for an attacking boost all season, with only eight goals scored – one of the lowest tallies in the league.

The Eagles have lacked offensive firepower since the departure of Michael Olise to Bayern Munich in the summer, and Mudryk, with his pace, creativity, and ability to take on defenders, could bring a new dynamic to Palace’s forward line.

His skill set aligns closely with what Olise brought to the Eagles, providing a direct threat and opening up space for fellow forwards.

Mudryk vs Olise: Style Comparison (SciSport)

Why Chelsea want to loan out Mudryk

For Chelsea, loaning out Mudryk offers several benefits. The Blues invested heavily in the winger, and consistent game time at Palace would allow him to gain valuable Premier League experience without the weight of the Blues’ current squad competition. The aim would be for Mudryk to return stronger, more confident, and better adapted to the league, potentially playing a pivotal role in future seasons.

One of the deal’s final points involves Mudryk’s wages, currently reported to be £100,000 per week. While specific terms are still being discussed, it is likely that both clubs will agree to share the cost of his wages, making it a financially feasible option for Palace while relieving Chelsea of the full burden of his salary.

Mudryk to Crystal Palace appears to be the perfect arrangement for all parties involved.

He has the chance to revive his career in a team that urgently needs his skill set. Palace could gain the attacking boost they’ve been searching for, and Chelsea stand to benefit from Mudryk’s development and return to form.