Crystal Palace in Talks for Moroccan Defender Chadi Riad from Real Betis

Crystal Palace, Chadi Riad’s next destination? Real Betis had paid 3 million euros to Barça to secure the services of Chadi Riad, in the form of a loan with a mandatory purchase option. Now, the Barcelona club is leaving it to Betis to "sell" the Moroccan international to Palace with a substantial profit. Betis values Riad’s market value at around 15 million pounds. It has already engaged in talks with Palace, which wants to have the 20-year-old defender in its squad, reports Mail Online. The two parties are trying to reach an agreement.

Crystal Palace needs the player to strengthen its defense. His 1.80m size and playing style fascinate them. Chadi is athletic, fast and left-footed. "Chadi is very physical, with good ground play and he wins duels [...] He can have a present and a future with FC Barcelona, which is why he is on the list," Xavi, coach of the Barça first team, had said in 2022. His reserve team coach, Rafael Márquez, added: "He is a central defender of great quality and with good ball control. He has experience and is mature despite his young age. He is a leader on the pitch."