Talks between Frank Lampard and Crystal Palace are said to be ‘progressing’ and the former Chelsea boss is reportedly already identifying transfer targets.
Hodgson is out of contract at Selhurst Park at the end of the season – along with the majority of the squad – and despite insisting he is not thinking of retirement, rumours suggest he will be moving on.
The Eagles hierarchy are thought to want a new philosophy at the club, and though Hodgson showed how he can adapt in the 3-2 win over Aston Villa on Sunday, Lampard has emerged as the likely candidate to lead Palace forward.
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The Chelsea legend was sacked by the Blues in January having struggled to build on an impressive start with a young squad last season.
He was linked with the vacant England under-21s post but links with Palace appear to be picking up pace.
Fabrizio Romano claims talks between Lampard, his agent and Palace are ‘progressing’.
Crystal Palace are still in contact with Frank Lampard and his agente as potential new manager – talks progressing. Abdallah Sima from Slavia Praga is among the options as new signings, also in case Lampard will be appointed.
#CPFC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 17, 2021
And Romano also claims Slavia Prague striker Abdallah Sima has been identified as a possible first signing should Lampard join the club.
19-year-old Sima has scored 11 goals in 20 appearances this season and has also been linked with a move to West Ham.
The Telegraph claim Palace will hand Lampard a £50million budget this summer after he looked for assurances he would be backed to improve a squad that will require a dramatic overhaul in the transfer window.
Chelsea duo Billy Gilmour and Tammy Abraham have also been tipped as two players he could pursue.
Gilmour was promoted to the Chelsea first-team squad under Lampard but has found opportunities under Thomas Tuchel hard to come by for the most part and a loan move could suit all parties next season.
Abraham was a regular starter and goalscorer under Lampard, but he’s barely featured under the German boss, with reports suggesting Chelsea will listen to offers for the academy graduate.
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