Palace readying for Barca bid for star | OneFootball

Report: Barcelona Revive Interest in Crystal Palace’s Daniel Muñoz

Barcelona’s recruitment plans for the 2026-27 campaign appear to be gathering momentum, with Crystal Palace’s Daniel Muñoz once again linked with a move to Catalonia, according to Mundo Deportivo. The Colombian right-back has emerged as one of the most consistent defenders in the Premier League, attracting interest from several major European clubs, including Manchester City and Chelsea.

Muñoz, 29, has become a crucial part of Palace’s system, playing almost every minute this season. His mix of energy, tactical discipline and sharp delivery from the flanks has been widely praised. Reports indicate that Barça’s sporting director Deco views him as a primary target, as the club seeks to strengthen an area that has remained a source of uncertainty for several seasons.

Palace’s Defensive Leader Drawing Big Interest

Crystal Palace have long benefited from Muñoz’s work rate and leadership. His performances have transformed the right side of the pitch, offering both defensive stability and attacking threat. While his contract runs until 2028, his market value of around €30 million reflects his growing reputation.

Barcelona’s current options on the right include Jules Koundé, who has often been used out of position, and Eric Garcia, who has largely returned to central defence. As the Catalan club aim to rejuvenate their squad while managing financial restrictions, Deco’s strategy reportedly focuses on value signings capable of immediate impact.

As one club insider told Mundo Deportivo, “Daniel Muñoz fits the exact profile we need, both as a player and a professional. He understands the tactical demands and possesses the right mentality.”

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Muñoz’s Longstanding Dream of Playing for Barcelona

Muñoz’s admiration for Barcelona is well-documented. In 2020, upon signing for Belgian side Genk from Atlético Nacional, he said, “For me it’s going to be a great projection, this league can give me very good things to improve. And why not, from there, think and visualise that I can reach a league like the Premier League or the Spanish one, because my dream is to play for Barcelona.”

That ambition, first stated five years ago, may yet become a reality. For Barcelona, a move for Muñoz would align with their renewed emphasis on hard-working players who can slot seamlessly into their system. For Muñoz, it would represent the culmination of a journey marked by persistence and development across continents.

Strategic Fit for Barcelona and Implications for Palace

Barcelona’s potential interest carries major implications for Palace. Losing such a dependable figure could disrupt their defensive rhythm, particularly given how Muñoz has become integral to the club’s identity under Oliver Glasner. Yet Palace are not expected to part ways easily. With a long-term contract and a player at the peak of his career, they would likely demand full market value.

If City and Chelsea also remain in contention, Palace could face a summer of significant negotiation. Still, for now, Muñoz’s focus remains on his club duties, continuing to deliver in one of the world’s most competitive leagues. His professionalism and leadership have earned admiration from both teammates and opponents, qualities that fit neatly within Barcelona’s traditional ethos.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Crystal Palace supporter’s perspective, rumours of Daniel Muñoz moving to Barcelona are bittersweet. While it would be a proud moment to see one of our own linked with one of the biggest clubs in world football, it would also be a huge loss. Muñoz has been immense since joining the club. His defensive awareness, stamina and relentless pressing have made him one of our most consistent performers.

Palace fans know the kind of player he is – passionate, humble and utterly committed. Watching him bomb down the right flank, creating width and pressing high, has become part of the team’s identity. Losing that presence, particularly with such a demanding Premier League schedule, could be difficult to replace.

Still, it’s understandable that he might be tempted. For any player, Barcelona is a dream move, and for a Colombian who once said his goal was to play for them, it would feel like a story coming full circle. Most Palace supporters would wish him well, even if his departure would leave a big void.

If this move does materialise, the hope among Palace fans will be that the club reinvests smartly and finds someone who can carry on Muñoz’s legacy of hard work and dedication.