Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has admitted to frustrations regarding the club's transfer activity this summer, particularly with the anticipated departure of star midfielder Eberechi Eze. Eze's move to Arsenal appears imminent, with reports suggesting the deal is worth an initial £60 million, potentially rising to £67.5 million with add-ons. Glasner has expressed disappointment that the club wasn't more proactive in securing a replacement for Eze earlier in the transfer window.
Glasner's concerns highlight a broader issue, as he previously stated that the slow start to the transfer window hasn't helped the team's preparations for the new season. He even warned that another slow start to the season is possible if the club delays its transfer business until the end of the window. The manager revealed he was promised more activity in the market and expressed concern over the current squad size, hoping not to lose any more players without adequate replacements. As of late July, Palace had only brought in left-back Borna Sosa and back-up goalkeeper Walter Benitez.
The departure of Eze will undoubtedly be a significant loss for Crystal Palace. Since joining the club in 2020, Eze has become a key player, contributing significantly with goals and assists. His performances have also earned him recognition on the international stage with the England squad. Glasner acknowledged Eze's talent and wished him well at his new club, seemingly resigned to the transfer.
With Eze's exit nearing, Crystal Palace are reportedly considering several options to bolster their squad. The club has been linked with Villarreal star Yéremy Pino and is reportedly preparing a £45 million bid for a replacement. Leicester City’s Bilal El Khannouss, and Southampton's Tyler Dibling are also potential targets. Other rumored arrivals include Richarlison, Joel Ordóñez and Christos Tzolis. Palace is also reportedly looking to add a new defender, with Club Brugge's Joel Ordonez on their shortlist.
Chairman Steve Parish has acknowledged Eze's departure and the need to move forward by finding new players. The club is also mindful of the future of Marc Guehi, another key player who has attracted interest from Liverpool. Palace may consider selling Guehi if a replacement can be secured, as they would not want to lose him on a free transfer in 2026. Lloyd Kelly, currently at Juventus, is an option to replace Guehi should he depart.
Despite the transfer speculation surrounding Eze and Guehi, Glasner insisted that both players were committed to the team. He highlighted their professionalism and desire to give their all for Crystal Palace as long as they remain at the club. Glasner confirmed that Eze and Guéhi would start in the first leg of Crystal Palace's Conference League playoff game. However, Eze was ultimately left out of the squad for the Conference League playoff match against Fredrikstad, further fueling speculation about his imminent move.
The coming weeks will be crucial for Crystal Palace as they look to finalize deals and strengthen their squad before the transfer window closes. Glasner will be hoping that the club can act swiftly to bring in quality replacements and avoid a repeat of last season's slow start.
