Crystal Palace ended their pre-season campaign on a dicey note with a 1-1 draw against French side Nantes. The most interesting part about the match was that Jesurun Rak-Sakyi wasn’t included in the squad.
This is a significant move as it suggests the player’s intention for the upcoming season. The England U20 international is moving and won’t be part of The Eagles’ first team for the 2024/25 campaign.
Castelletto opened the scoring against Palace in the friendly as the latest signing Daichi Kamada saved the day for the London-based club. The Japanese international made a simple finish from a low cross in the 60th minute.
There have been no official reasonings from the club regarding the player’s omission. The event came to light when Crystal Palace announced their squad for the friendly on X (formerly Twitter).
The timing of the omission raises certain questions. Jesurun Rak-Sakyi hasn’t decided on his future yet but it looks like the club is certain to find him a temporary home this season.
Leeds United recently bid £15 million for the winger. This was after they agreed on loan terms with the club to sign the youngster. The bid is expected to be rejected as The Eagles aren’t keen on selling the winger this summer.
Jesurun Rak-Sakyi Transfer Speculation and Market Dynamics
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In regards to the loan terms, three clubs have agreed to the conditions. The front-runners Sheffield United, followed by Leeds United and Hull City.
The terms include a seven-figure transfer fee, full salary coverage and an intriguing recall clause for January. This is an interesting clause which might suggest that Palace still see him as a long-term asset.
Charlton Athletic is also on the list of the suitors. They had Jesurun for the 2022/23 season where the Englishman teared up League One with 24 goals in 49 appearances.
A return to League One seems off the cards as the player has already crossed that level. The Whites have a gripping permanent offer but the recall clause suggests Palace’s long-term interest in the player.
Hull City are a mid-table second-tier club which might make it a challenging endeavour but an unlikely one. As reported previously, Sheffield United remain front runners.
Both The Blades and Leeds United are the favourites for promotion this season. This provides ample opportunity for Rak-Sakyi where he needs to step up and help a squad in an extremely competitive environment.
With Crysencio Summerville gone and The 49ers in need of a goalscorer, Jesurun can lead a challenging adventure at Elland Road. But, this is only if Leeds take back their permanent offer and push hard for the loan.
