Following Eberechi Eze's expected transfer to Arsenal, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner is set to receive the club's full backing in the transfer market to reinforce the squad. Eze's move, reportedly worth up to £67.5 million including add-ons, provides Palace with substantial funds to reinvest in the team. Glasner has been preparing for Eze's departure, identifying potential replacements and emphasizing the need for quality signings.
Glasner acknowledged Eze's imminent exit, stating that Eze would not play for Crystal Palace again and that the club has been searching for replacements for weeks. He stressed the importance of bringing in new players, prioritizing quality over quantity. Crystal Palace are keen to strengthen Glasner's squad with at least two new additions – a defender and a forward – in the coming weeks.
Several players have been linked with a move to Crystal Palace as potential replacements for Eze. These include Leicester City forward Bilal El Khannouss and Southampton's Tyler Dibling. Crystal Palace are reportedly prepared to offer £35 million plus add-ons for Dibling, potentially reaching a total package of £45 million. Club Brugge winger Christos Tzolis has also been mentioned, although a bid worth €32 million was rejected.
In addition to an attacking midfielder, Palace are also targeting defensive reinforcements. Club Brugge central defender Joel Ordonez is reportedly on their shortlist as they prepare for a potential departure of Marc Guehi, who has attracted interest from Liverpool. Palace are also said to be interested in Arsenal players Leandro Trossard, Reiss Nelson and Jakub Kiwior.
The departure of Eze marks the end of an era at Selhurst Park, with fans acknowledging his contributions and wishing him well at Arsenal. Some fans expressed happiness that Eze chose Arsenal over Tottenham, viewing it as a step up for the player. Despite the disappointment of losing a key player, there is optimism that Glasner will use the transfer funds wisely to build a stronger and more competitive squad.
Glasner's appointment in February 2024 has been largely successful, with fans impressed by his tactical approach and in-game management. With a full transfer window to reshape the squad, there is anticipation that he can build on the team's progress and aim for a higher league finish.
Crystal Palace have recently appointed a new head of recruitment, Jamie Hobbs, who will be involved in the club's transfer plans. The club's strategy of offering Odsonne Edouard a new contract before loaning him to Leicester City, is expected to generate around £5.1 million in transfer funds, further boosting Glasner's budget.