Crystal Palace 'to trigger Andros Townsend release clause'

Crystal Palace are reportedly planning to trigger a release clause in Andros Townsend's contract at Newcastle United.

The 24-year-old has been widely expected to leave St James' Park this summer, despite only joining the club from Tottenham Hotspur in January.

Townsend scored four goals in 13 appearances for the Magpies, who dropped into the Championship alongside Norwich City and Aston Villa.

Watford, Southampton, West Bromwich Albion and West Ham United have been linked to the winger's signature, but according to Sky Sports News, the player is likely to join the Eagles.

The report adds that an official bid is yet to be lodged, but Palace are willing to meet Townsend's £13m release clause.

Palace have also reportedly had a club-record £31.5m bid for Michy Batshuayi accepted by Marseille, but they are expected to lose out to Tottenham Hotspur.