Crystal Palace have ‘looked at’ Bayern Munich defender Chris Richards ahead of a potential move this summer, according to Daily Express journalist Ryan Taylor.

Richards has spent the last 18 months on loan at TSG Hoffenheim and has reportedly caught the eye of a couple of Premier League clubs with his impressive performances in the Bundesliga.

What is the latest news involving Palace?

The Eagles are believed to be in the market for defensive reinforcements following their impressive debut campaign under the tutelage of manager Patrick Vieira.

Manchester United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka is said to be on Palace’s wish list following their academy graduate’s recent struggles, although a temporary switch is the most likely outcome.

And Tom Barclay recently informed GiveMeSport that the south London outfit are among Ronnie Edwards’ admirers following his breakout campaign with Peterborough United.

Meanwhile, The Athletic also credited the south London outfit with an interest in Richards, who can play along the backline but is most comfortable at centre-back.

It's claimed that fellow top-flight outfit Southampton are also keeping close tabs on the 22-year-old's situation despite a couple of separate injuries limiting his game time last term.

What has Taylor said about Richards?

Despite Palace having a better defensive record than fifth-placed Arsenal in 2021/22, it seems bolstering the backline is high up on Vieira’s priority list.

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And although Taylor believes the capital club ‘probably couldn’t afford’ to sign Wan-Bissaka on a permanent basis, they have cast their eye over Richards.

He told GiveMeSport: “I think Palace, realistically, probably couldn't afford what would be required to sign him on a permanent deal, but a loan would be a potential option. I know Chris Richards of Bayern Munich is another player that they've looked at.”

Would Richards be a good signing?

Richards, who is valued at £6.75m by Transfermarkt, has played just 44 senior club games throughout his career, something that may concern Vieira and the Palace hierarchy.

However, when the 6 foot 2 ace has been able to get out on the pitch, he has been able to showcase his true potential more often than not, putting up some outstanding underlying numbers.

As per FBref, Richards has ranked in the 99th percentile for blocks, 98th for aerial duals won, 83rd for pressures and interceptions, and the 82nd for progressive passes amongst his positional peers over the last year.

Richards' versatility, quality and potential could all be attractive qualities to Palace, and Vieira could acquire another talented defender if he's able to secure the services of the USA international.