Would Sweden winger be the perfect fit for Crystal Palace?

Sweden may have limped to a draw against Republic of Ireland in their Euro 2016 opener, but rumour has it that Crystal Palace boss Alan Pardew already has his eye on snapping up one of the Swedes’ midfield quartet, in the form of Emil Forsberg.

The versatile 24-year-old is equally comfortable on the left and right wings, and that flexibility has boosted the reputation of a player who impressed greatly for German club RB Leipzig last season.

Chalking up eight goals and seven assists in the 2.Bundesliga, the Sundsvall native was a key man as Die Bullen secured promotion to the German top-flight, and it’s believed those displays have not gone unnoticed at Selhurst Park.

Palace were one of the Premier League’s lowest scorers last season, with just 39 strikes to their name, and snapping up a creative midfielder who’s managed 10 goals for club and country in the last year looks like smart business, if this move does take place.

And shrewd Pardew could well acquire the former Malmo man for a bargain sum, with Transfermarkt.co.uk rating his likely asking price at £3.75m. That’s if he acts quickly, of course – more impressive displays for Blagult in France could well see his price skyrocket.

Sweden are next in action on Friday, with Erik Hamren’s men 17/4 to beat Italy, while an Italian win is 5/6 and it’s 12/5 for a draw.

Those tipping Forsberg to impress again can back the tricky winger to net anytime at 13/2.

And Palace’s boss may be praying the RB Leipzig star is off form in this one, or else more potential suitors could be queuing up for his signature.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.