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Crystal Palace and Everton are reportedly locked in a transfer tussle over highly-rated German midfielder Merlin Röhl, as both Premier League clubs look to bolster their midfield options ahead of the summer window.
According to German outlet *BILD*, SC Freiburg’s 22-year-old rising star has caught the attention of both English sides, with the Bundesliga outfit prepared to part ways with their talented prospect for a fee in the region of €25 million.
**Who is Merlin Röhl?**
Röhl has made a name for himself as one of Germany’s most exciting young midfielders since making the switch from FC Ingolstadt 04 to Freiburg in August 2022. Born in Berlin, Röhl began his development at SV Babelsberg 03 before advancing through Ingolstadt’s youth system. Over the past few seasons, he has grown into a dependable presence in the heart of Freiburg’s midfield.
Despite struggling with injuries during the current campaign—limiting him to fewer than 1,000 minutes across 17 matches—Röhl’s quality on the ball and tactical awareness have earned him admirers across Europe. His ability to control tempo and transition from defence to attack makes him an appealing target for clubs seeking long-term midfield solutions.
**Why Everton and Palace Want Röhl**
Everton’s pursuit of Röhl stems from a need to refresh their aging midfield. With veteran Idrissa Gueye approaching the twilight of his career and Abdoulaye Doucouré likely to depart at the end of the 2024/25 season, the Toffees are actively scouting for a younger alternative who can anchor their midfield in the years ahead. Röhl fits the profile perfectly as a technically gifted, tactically mature player with top-flight experience.
Crystal Palace, on the other hand, have also found themselves short in midfield this season. Cheick Doucouré has battled fitness issues, and rising star Adam Wharton is already attracting interest from bigger clubs despite his reported loyalty to the Eagles. Röhl would provide depth, competition, and a potential long-term replacement should Wharton eventually move on.
**Premier League Move Incoming?**
With a price tag of €25 million—relatively modest by Premier League standards—Röhl could be one of the more affordable yet high-upside additions this summer. The question now is whether Palace or Everton will act first to secure his services.
Given his pedigree and potential, Merlin Röhl’s next step could very well be the Premier League stage, as the battle to sign one of the Bundesliga’s most intriguing young midfielders heats up.
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