‘Big project’ excites new Crystal Palace signing Will Hughes
New Crystal Palace signing Will Hughes says that one of the deciding factors behind his decision to head to Selhurst Park was the “big project” that the Eagles are building under Patrick Vieira.
Hughes signed a three-year deal with the South Londoners and becomes Patrick Vieira’s sixth summer signing, joining Michael Olise, Remi Matthews, Marc Guehi, Joachim Andersen and Conor Gallagher this summer.
Hughes, who has been capped by England at U21 level, joins the Eagles for a fee in the region of £6m, which could rise to £10m with add-ons.
Speaking on the summer rebuild which has taken place over the window, Hughes told Palace TV: “It was a big pull, they’re planning for the future – it’s exciting times ahead. They’re not just planning for the here and now, which is obviously important, but they have got a big project going on here, so it’s exciting to be part of it.
“I am delighted to be here. There was a lot of different factors. When I heard they were interested, I had a good chat with my agent about what’s good about it. I knew previous players that had played here who had played here before, and they said good things about the club, so in the end it became a no brainer.”
When asked about where he sees himself fitting in with Vieira’s style of play, Hughes added: “I think it suits my game. I’ve had a good think about things and where to make my next step and this seemed like the right place all things considered. The way the lads are playing, the group they’ve got here – it all sits well.
“I am hard-working, first and foremost. I am comfortable in possession. I can play anywhere in central midfield, whether that’s a bit further forward or defensively.”
Hughes is also excited about playing in front of a packed out Selhurst Park in the near future.
“I know about the noise. I’ve had good experiences there – not necessarily results-wise – but the atmosphere is incredible. That’s what you want – not as an away player, but as a home player. It’s going to be brilliant.
“I played there in the Championship and it was loud in that league, so I can’t imagine what it’s going to be like in the Premier League as a home player. I can’t wait.”
PICTURE: cpfc.co.uk/Seb Frej
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