Crystal Palace are reportedly prepared to build on their FA Cup heroics by going “big” in the transfer market to strengthen Oliver Glasner’s squad for a debut UEFA Europa League campaign next season.
The Standard reports that Palace is keen to bolster its defence with two new defenders and attack with two new attackers. This is despite Glasner “historically preferring” to work with smaller groups. A season in Europe means the Austrian coach will need strength in depth to ensure the Eagles can deal with the intense fixture list.
Glasner has worked wonders since arriving at Selhurst Park, securing the club’s first trophy while also overseeing impressive Premier League campaigns. The 50-year-old is reportedly in talks over a contract extension with his current deal expiring next season.
Palace Set To Be Busy This Summer
Several players have already been linked
Glasner feels that Palace’s FA Cup triumph has made them “more attractive,” which could mean bringing high-profile names to Selhurst Park this summer. The Eagles earned £2m in prize money for their Wembley win over Manchester City, and that could be put towards the manager’s wish for two new attacking midfielders.
Lyon’s Rayan Cherki has been linked, and the French attacker has decided to leave the French giants this summer. Palace are reportedly weighing up a move for the 21-year-old who could be available at a cut-price £18.5m fee.
The Eagles are reportedly also considering swooping for Southampton midfielder Mateus Fernandes following the Saints’ relegation. The 20-year-old Portuguese could be available at £20m.
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Crystal Palace (Premier League 2024-25) |
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|---|---|
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Games Played: |
37 |
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Won: |
13 |
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Drawn: |
13 |
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Lost: |
11 |
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Goals For: |
50 |
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Goals Conceded: |
50 |
Palace often spends their summer fretting over the futures of their star players, and their cup win has placed plenty of eyes on the likes of Eberechi Eze and Jean-Philippe Mateta. The report claims that Marc Guehi is expected to be sold with a year left on his contract, and “there is no prospect of him signing a new one.”
GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Christian Benteke is Crystal Palace’s all-time club-record signing at £27m.
This will be the club’s first transfer window since sporting director Dougie Freedman left for Saudi-based Diriyah Group. Iain Moody was immediately linked as his replacement ten years after his controversial exit, per The Daily Mail.
