Graham Potter ‘is Crystal Palace’s top choice to be their new manager’

Graham Potter is Crystal Palace’s first choice as they search for a new manager, according to reports.

Roy Hodgson’s short-term contract at Selhurst Park ends this summer.

Veteran Hodgson, 75, took over in March to guide his boyhood side through the end of the season after his south London successor Patrick Vieira was sacked in March.

Palace are therefore on the hunt for a new permanent boss – although Hodgson hasn’t been ruled out entirely as an option.

And as the Independent reports, the club see Potter as the “ideal” choice to take them forward.

The 48-year-old boss (right) is currently out of work after being sacked by Chelsea in April

Veteran Roy Hodgson’s short-term contract at Selhurst Park ends this summer

The Eagles believe they can provide him with a “compelling” offer, including the chance to lead an ambitious side with some of the division’s brightest young players including Marc Guehi, Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise.

Palace, in turn, want these stars to shine in a more progressive and attacking style of play, which they believe Potter can implement.

But they will face significant competition from other Premier League clubs in their bid to land the former Chelsea and Brighton boss.

Potter is currently out of work after being sacked by the Blues in April. Prior to that, he managed Palace’s bitter rivals Brighton, although that didn’t appear to be a barrier to the move.

However, any club keen to appoint the 48-year-old will need to persuade him to return to management as he considers a break following his turbulent spell at Stamford Bridge and subsequent exit.

French release foot market claimed Potter had held talks with Palace, as well as Ligue 1 side Nice.

Tottenham are one of the teams considering Potter, although Brendan Rodgers, Roberto De Zerbi and Julian Nagelsmann are also in the running.

Leicester were also linked with Potter, but their relegation to the Championship makes them a less attractive prospect.