GRAHAM POTTER is reportedly in talks to take over from Roy Hodgson at Crystal Palace.
Foot Mercato claims the former Brighton and Chelsea boss is set for a swift Premier League return just two months after being axed by the Blues.
Palace rehired Hodgson to save them from relegation after sacking Patrick Vieira.
But the ex-England gaffer has no desire to return for next season after bidding farewell with Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest.
And Eagles chiefs are now said to have opened talks with Potter as they look to get the best from exciting young stars like Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise.
It’s believed Palace have stolen a march on French club Nice, owned by Manchester United takeover hopeful Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
READ MORE CHELSEA NEWS
The Ligue 1 outfit expressed their interest in Potter earlier this month.
But Ratcliffe’s involvement at Old Trafford has seen talks put on ice.
Palace are now hoping to quickly swoop for Potter, who spent over three years with rivals Brighton before joining Chelsea in September.
Todd Boehly put his faith in the 48-year-old after ditching fan favourite and Champions League winner Thomas Tuchel.
Most read in Football
FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
But despite ending up with £600million-worth of new talent after January’s splurge, Potter was axed in April after just 12 wins from 31 matches.
The report from France adds that Palace have no issues with his record at Stamford Bridge.
And they “absolutely” hope Potter will accept the challenge of turning Palace into contenders for Europe.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk