Crystal Palace Reports Interest in Free Agent Jamie Vardy

Jamie Vardy, the 38-year-old striker and former Leicester City legend, is set to leave the club at the end of his contract following their relegation from the Premier League. Crystal Palace, fresh off their FA Cup victory and preparing for next season's UEFA Europa League, have emerged as a leading contender to sign Vardy on a free transfer, aiming to strengthen their attacking options. Despite his age, Vardy remains a prolific scorer, having netted 200 goals for Leicester and contributed significantly in the 2024/25 season with ten goals and four assists. Palace already have forwards Jean-Philippe Mateta and Eddie Nketiah but view Vardy's experience, including Champions League and Europa League exposure, as valuable for their ambitions. While Vardy currently earns a high wage at Leicester, a pay cut is expected if he moves, as Crystal Palace's top earners make less than his current salary. Vardy's move would provide Palace with a seasoned striker capable of bolstering their squad depth for both domestic and European competitions next season.