June 10, 2025 | South London Sport News
In a major development ahead of the summer transfer window, Crystal Palace Football Club has officially confirmed the departure of two key first-team players as the club begins a new era under manager Oliver Glasner.
The players in question — midfielder Cheick Doucouré and defender Joachim Andersen — are set to leave Selhurst Park in the coming weeks after what the club described as “mutual and strategic decisions” to reshape the squad. Their exits are expected to free up significant wage space and create room for incoming signings, which Palace officials say are already in advanced stages.
A Shift in Strategy
The move signals a shift in Crystal Palace’s squad-building approach. After securing a top-half Premier League finish in the 2024–25 season, club chairman Steve Parish hinted at a summer of change.
“We’re incredibly grateful for everything Cheick and Joachim have given to the club,” said Parish. “Both have been fantastic professionals, but as we look to refresh and inject new energy into the squad, these moves were necessary.”
Interest from Across Europe
Doucouré, who joined Palace from Lens in 2022, quickly became a fan favorite in midfield with his aggressive ball-winning and calm distribution. However, injuries plagued his most recent season, limiting his impact. He is reportedly attracting interest from Ligue 1 and Serie A clubs, with Marseille and AC Milan both monitoring the situation.
Andersen, on the other hand, has drawn attention from Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund, who see the Danish center-back as a perfect fit for their evolving back line.
Both deals are expected to bring in a combined fee in the region of £45 million, which Palace intends to reinvest immediately.
Incoming Signings on the Horizon
Crystal Palace is rumored to be closing in on two major additions — a young attacking midfielder from the Dutch Eredivisie and a center-back from the Championship regarded as one of England’s brightest defensive prospects. While names have not yet been confirmed, sources suggest deals could be finalized before the club departs for its pre-season tour in Asia.
Manager Oliver Glasner has reportedly played a key role in identifying and recruiting the new targets, aiming to increase squad depth and versatility ahead of the 2025–26 campaign.
Fan Reaction Mixed but Hopeful
News of the departures has sparked a flurry of reactions from fans. While many expressed sadness over losing two key players, others welcomed the idea of a new-look squad built around youth and dynamism.
“Sad to see Doucouré go, but if this means real investment in attacking creativity, I’m all for it,” one fan posted on X.
Palace’s summer business will likely shape expectations for the coming season. After a promising finish under Glasner, supporters will be watching closely to see if the club can build on its momentum and possibly push for European qualification.
