Daichi Kamada is all set to join Crystal Palace on a free transfer from Lazio, as revealed by renowned transfer insider Fabrizio Romano. The player fell out with the Albiceleste hierarchy after asking for a €2.5 million signing on fee for his new contract, and will now leave as a free agent.
He will be reuniting with former Eintracht Frankfurt manager Oliver Glasner, who has been extremely effective since joining the Eagles. The transfer has been rumoured for a long time, and is now set to go through.
Daichi Kamada to join Crystal Palace as free agent
🇯🇵 Lazio president Lotito: “Daichi Kamada asked for extra €2.5m as signing fee to extend his contract… nobody can blackmail us”.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 2, 2024
“We will send away all the mercenaries”, Lotito told Corriere.
🔵🔴 Crystal Palace are closing in on Kamada deal, as revealed two days ago. pic.twitter.com/n7IdA4ecSF
The move comes as a huge blow to Lazio, who were planning their project around Kamada. However, the Japanese isn’t the only player who is leaving. Luis Alberto is set to leave as well, alongside Felipe Anderson.
The 27-year-old made 38 appearances across all competitions for Lazio, scoring and assisting two goals each. While the goals and assists might not be too impressive, his contribution towards the overall play is what was truly valuable to the team.
And now, the Albiceleste will have to rebuild their entire attacking midfield line-up for the coming season to cope with the three departures.
On the other hand, Crystal Palace are shaping up to be a truly exciting team after the performances this season, coupled with the arrival of Daichi Kamada and Chadi Riad in defence.