Crystal Palace in advanced talks with free agent Diego Cavalieri

Crystal Palace boss Roy Hodgson has confirmed that his side are close to securing the services of free agent goalkeeper Diego Cavalieri.

The Eagles had hoped to hold out until the summer before bringing in a new stopper, only for Julian Speroni to pick up a season-ending injury at the start of the month.

Hodgson has therefore been left with Wayne Hennessey between the sticks but, following a short trial spell in South London, Cavalieri is now on the brink of joining to provide some much-needed cover at Selhurst Park.

Speaking to reporters at his weekly press conference, the former England manager confirmed that he is hopeful of getting a deal over the line for the 35-year-old, who has been without a club since leaving Brazilian side Fluminense at the end of last year.

Cavalieri has previously spent time with Liverpool, but he never made a single Premier League appearance during his two years at Anfield.