Valencia have reportedly 'started to close' a deal for Crystal Palace goalkeeper Vicente Guaita, as they look to find a replacement for Jasper Cillessen following the Dutchman's disappointing season at the Mestalla.
Guaita, who was a product of Valencia's youth system, previously played for the club between 2008 and 2014, before making a move to Getafe, where he spent four seasons. The Spaniard then transferred to Crystal Palace in 2018, where he is currently their number one goalkeeper.
According to Spanish publication Deporte Valenciano, there has been contact between Crystal Palace and Valencia regarding the transfer of Guaita, and his response to the move has been 'more than affirmative', with the deal apparently close to completion.
Other possible replacements include Chelsea's Kepa Arrizabalaga and Barcelona's Neto, the latter of whom had previously spent two seasons at Valencia. A deal for Guaita, however, who is older than Kepa and Neto and whose contract expires in 2021, might be more economically feasible for Albert Celades' side.
Guaita has been in impressive form for Palace this season, conceding just 28 times in 27 Premier League appearances. He has also kept nine clean sheets for Roy Hodgson's side, which is the joint-fifth highest in the league, putting him above the likes of David de Gea and Kepa.
Guaita made 114 appearances in the six years he spent with Valencia's first team, keeping a total of 38 clean sheets. He often competed with other goalkeepers for the number one spot during his time at the Mestalla, sharing the role with the likes of Cesar Sanchez and Diego Alves.
He was made second captain in 2013/14, but moved to Getafe at the end of that season. There, he found regular first-team football before making the move to Crystal Palace on a free transfer in 2018.
The Spaniard was initially the second-choice goalkeeper at Selhurst Park, but eventually took Wayne Hennessey's number one spot, where he has rewarded Roy Hodgson's faith with some impressive performances.
Source: 90min
