Big Sam looks to have played this hand extremely well.
On Thursday, Robbie Brady appeared to be off to Crystal Palace. Less than 24 hours later and his footballing future remains in the balance.
The Republic of Ireland international has determined to put his head down and focus on his football while Norwich City, and his representatives, discuss the finer details.
Having priced several clubs out of the Brady market during the summer [asking for £15m], their stance appears to have softened. The club are now willing to let him leave Carrow Road but are hopeful of securing an eventual £12m for his services.
According to The Guardian, Crystal Palace had a bid of £9m [plus £3m in add-ons] accepted but the player and clubs still needed to agree terms. Leicester, who were interested in the summer, appear less keen now while Burnley and Sunderland are said to both want Brady.
Palace’s interest in the versatile Brady appears to have been a ploy to get Sunderland left-back Patrick van Aanholt for a cheaper price. The Dutchman is having a medical this afternoon with the Londoners ahead of his move from Sunderland.
Former Black Cats, and now Palace, boss Sam Allardyce told reporters:
“It won’t go through until every aspect of negotiation, and what the medical might say. It’s in the process at the moment.
“But I wouldn’t imagine [van Aanholt’s] heart issue will be a problem – I have had two players in the past with a similar condition. I’m sure the medical will be okay and he will be looking forward to joining us. He was a major saviour in our [Sunderland’s] run last season.
“His contribution, in terms of assists and goals, was massive. When it came to defending he got better with me and listened to what we told him about, where the weaker side of his game was and he made it stronger.”
Brady can, of course, cover midfield but he is seen by many clubs as a mobile full-back with excellent dead-ball delivery. He will not be happy at being used by Allardyce to get the van Aanholt deal over the line.
His time at Norwich appears to be over but his next destination is far from certain.
