BBC SOLENT claim Crystal Palace have matched Charlton’s offer to secure the services of Eddie Howe as manager.

Speculation has reached fever pitch this afternoon about the future of Howe after the Bournemouth boss was earlier heavily linked with a move to Charlton.

Howe, who is also a target for Crystal Palace, is meeting with Bournemouth’s owners this afternoon to discuss his future.

Charlton were believed to have bettered Palace’s initial offer, but BBC Solent are now reporting the Eagles have come back in with a second bid as tension mounts between both sets of fans anxious to find out if Howe will be their man.

It was earlier rumoured the Addicks would be releasing a press statement at 3pm, a claim flatly denied by the club when asked by News Shopper at 2.50pm.

The 3pm deadline has long since passed and Palace’s reported latest move has only added to the uncertainty.

Bournemouth chairman Eddie Mitchell emerged from his meeting with Howe after 4pm to reveal Howe is now set to decide his future this evening.