Crystal Palace are close to confirming the signing of versatile Super Eagles midfielder Christantus Uche, in one of the most notable Nigerian moves of the summer.
According to Sky Sports News, Palace saw off interest from Aston Villa and Sunderland to land the highly rated 22-year-old, who had also been strongly linked with Wolves earlier in the window before that deal collapsed.
Palace and Spanish club Getafe have agreed to end Uche’s contract three years early, with the Premier League side paying a €20 million fee. The Nigerian has already arrived at Palace’s training ground for his medical, clearing the way for his official unveiling.
Uche’s career has been remarkable. He joined Getafe three years ago as a central defender, later switched to defensive midfield, and eventually shone as a centre forward – showing great adaptability across the pitch.
With Eberechi Eze leaving for Arsenal, Palace moved quickly to make Uche a key signing before the transfer window closes. He will now join Oliver Glasner’s squad before travelling to Uyo for Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Rwanda.