Crystal Palace is on the verge of completing the signing of Walter Benitez, the seasoned goalkeeper from PSV Eindhoven, on a free transfer. Benitez, whose contract with the Dutch club expires this month, has already completed his medical examinations. The official announcement from Palace is pending the finalization of all necessary documents.

Benitez, 32, played a pivotal role in PSV's recent Eredivisie triumph, where they narrowly edged out Ajax by a single point. His consistent performance throughout the league campaign was instrumental in securing the title. Additionally, Benitez started in 11 out of PSV's 12 Champions League fixtures last season, helping the team reach the last 16, where they were ultimately defeated by Arsenal with an aggregate score of 9-3.

At Crystal Palace, Benitez will be competing with Dean Henderson, the current first-choice goalkeeper, who recently started for England in their 3-1 friendly defeat to Senegal. This acquisition is expected to bolster Palace's defensive options and provide healthy competition within the squad.

This strategic move by Crystal Palace underscores their ambition to strengthen their team for the challenges of the Premier League season ahead.