Bradford City are exploring the possibility of bringing Crystal Palace forward Hindolo Mustapha in on loan during the January transfer window, according to GIVEMESPORT sources.
The League One promotion hopefuls are one of several clubs tracking the 19-year-old after his short-term spell with German side FC Nürnberg came to an early end at the start of December. Nürnberg opted to cut the loan short after Mustapha failed to break into the first team under head coach Miroslav Klose, making only two appearances for the club’s reserve side.
Mustapha had attracted interest from a number of English Football League clubs over the summer but chose a move to the 2. Bundesliga in search of a higher level of competition. That gamble did not pay off, and Palace are now assessing the best next step for his development.
Palace favour England-based loan
Crystal Palace are understood to be open to sending Mustapha out on loan again, with the aim of securing regular senior football. However, there is a preference for the youngster to remain in England, where the club believes he will benefit more from the environment and style of play at this stage of his career.
League Two side Walsall are long-term admirers and previously held discussions with the player’s representatives, while Portsmouth manager John Mousinho was a frequent presence at Palace Under-21 fixtures last season as he personally monitored Mustapha’s progress.
The teenager signed a new contract with Palace in the summer that runs until 2028. He was a key figure for the Under-21s last season, featuring 29 times, scoring 11 goals and registering seven assists. His performances earned him the club’s Under-21 Player of the Season award and a nomination for the Premier League 2 Player of the Season.
Comfortable anywhere across the front line, Mustapha is highly regarded for his dribbling ability and creativity. He has also earned three senior caps for Sierra Leone and was invited to train with Palace’s first team during their mid-season camp in Marbella last year.
Bradford targeting extra firepower
Bradford’s interest comes as they look to strengthen their attack in a bid to secure promotion. The Bantams have scored 32 goals in 22 League One matches and currently sit third in the table, four points behind leaders Cardiff City and just one point off the automatic promotion places.
Adding a direct and dynamic forward like Mustapha could provide a timely boost to their promotion push. Palace and Bradford already share a positive working relationship, having previously sent both Tayo Adaramola and Scott Banks to Valley Parade on loan.