The Premier League season kicks off this weekend, and Crystal Palace have been intelligent in their recruitment throughout the summer transfer window.

Dougie Freedman has brought in Malcolm Ebiowei, Sam Johnstone, Chris Richards and Cheick Doucoure, improving every area of their playing squad.

The latter however, could strike up a fine partnership with another player being linked with a move to Selhurst Park.

It has been reported recently that the south London club are looking to re-sign Ruben Loftus-Cheek, following a successful loan spell at the club during the 2017/18 season.

With Premier League giants Chelsea open to allowing the Englishman to go out on loan again, perhaps he could recapture the form that saw him catapulted into the national team setup during his first stint with Palace.

The £150k-per-week wizard played a sparing role for the Blues last season, featuring just 24 times in the league. Although he did not score, he still earned praise for his performances from his manager Thomas Tuchel.

After Loftus-Cheek’s wonderful FA Cup semi-final performance against the Eagles, the German had the following to say:

“He was very, very strong in matches against Southampton and Real Madrid. He would have deserved to start but we expected a back four. We knew Ruben would have a big impact off the bench. I am very happy.

“He hid his talent and potential for a long time in his career. He is capable of producing performances that everyone sees on the pitch. For him it is step by step that he continues to grow in his confidence.”

To sit him beside Doucoure in Palace’s midfield could be a Patrick Vieira masterstroke, combining skill and flair with intelligence and hard work.

Last season Loftus-Cheek ranked in the top 1% for progressive carries and dribbles completed, outlining him as a creative presence that would help progress Palace up the field. At times he has been labelled “unplayable”.

Combined with Doucoure, who averaged 2.63 tackles, 2.26 interceptions, and ranked in the top 7% for progressive passes per 90, it seems that this midfield pairing could have everything to dominate in the Premier League.

Vieira should swoop to secure a romantic return for the midfielder, a form a scary partnership in the engine room to help propel them up the table.