Crystal Palace have been linked with a move for Juventus defender Radu Dragusin ahead of the upcoming transfer window.

What's the story?

According to Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport (print version via Tutto Mercato Web), the Eagles have made an offer for the highly-rated 19-year-old as they prepare for life after Roy Hodgson.

The report doesn't state the exact sum that Palace are believed to have offered for Dragusin and claims that the Romania Under-21 international would be open to staying with the Turin giants if Merih Demiral is sold.

Parish must swoop

A new contract was signed by the former Regal Bucharest academy graduate as recently as April, appearing to end any chance of a summer exit for the youngster.

However, it appears as though Dragusin could still depart Juve over the coming months as Massimiliano Allegri plans an overhaul of the Serie A outfit.

It could present a perfect opportunity for Palace chairman Steve Parish to snap up one of Europe's best teenage centre-backs, and he must swoop for prodigy before another interested party pounces.

Although Dragusin doesn't have an abundance of first-team experience, making just four appearances for the Old Lady's senior side, his arrival at Selhurst Park is much-needed.

The Eagles are in desperate need of young players over the imminent window in order to lower the average age of their squad, which was the oldest in the Premier League last season.

They also have real problems in the heart of defence. Mamadou Sakho, Gary Cahill and Scott Dann are all set to become free agents when their current contracts expire at the end of the month, meaning reinforcements will be desperately required.

After impressing in a 20-minute cameo against Dynamo Kyiv in the Champions League group stage, former Juve manager Andrea Pirlo was quick to praise Dragusin's development.

“He’s physically very strong. He’s very young and must develop on a technical level, but he will have time to do it, training every day with great champions,” said Pirlo in his post-match press conference.

Therefore, news of his potential arrival will surely have the Palace supporters buzzing as the club enters a treacherous transitional period. At long last, the club are beginning to target young players who they can build for the future or sell on for a greater fee.

That business method has eluded them in years gone by so this deal would be timely from Steve Parish, one that provokes a sense of relief from supporters at Selhurst Park.

And, in other news...Worse than Nuno: Palace must avoid potential Hodgson successor with 42.51% win record