As the Premier League transfer window hurtles towards its 7 pm deadline on Monday evening, Crystal Palace are poised to be among the most active clubs, with manager Oliver Glasner aiming to bolster his squad significantly. The Eagles have already seen key defender Marc Guehi depart for Manchester City in a £20 million deal, leaving a notable gap in defence that urgently needs addressing. Meanwhile, the ongoing saga involving striker Jean-Philippe Mateta's potential move to AC Milan adds further intrigue, with a £30 million agreement reportedly in place pending medical results.
Crystal Palace's Potential Starting XI Based on Transfer Rumours
If the latest whispers materialise, Glasner could field a revamped lineup by the end of deadline day. In goal, Dean Henderson is expected to retain his spot, providing stability between the posts. The defensive unit, however, might see substantial changes, with a trio of centre-backs including Joel Ordonez, Maxence Lacroix, and Ethan Pinnock, supported by wing-backs Tyrick Mitchell and Daniel Munoz.
Defensive Reinforcements: A Top Priority
With just hours remaining, strengthening the backline remains a critical focus for Crystal Palace. Glasner's preference for a three-centre-back system has left the squad thinly stretched, especially after Guehi's exit. While Jefferson Lerma can deputise, he is more comfortable in midfield, and younger options like Jaydee Canvot and Chadi Riad lack the necessary experience at this level.
Three defensive targets are reportedly on Palace's radar. First, Brentford's Ethan Pinnock, a 32-year-old with 116 Premier League appearances, offers valuable top-flight knowhow despite limited minutes this season. Talks between the clubs are ongoing, according to Football Insider. Second, Joel Ordonez from Club Brugge has attracted interest, with an initial bid rejected but a follow-up offer possible today. Third, Lyon's Ruben Kluivert is another option, with transfer specialist Ekrem Konur noting discussions are underway, though James Savundra reports that Lyon have turned down three offers so far.
Midfield and Attack: Striker Deal Agreed
In midfield, Adam Wharton and Will Hughes are likely to feature, with Wharton set to stay at Selhurst Park for now, though his future may be revisited in the summer. The attacking midfield roles could see Brennan Johnson and Ismaila Sarr providing creativity and pace on the flanks.
Up front, the big news is Crystal Palace's agreement on a £48 million transfer for Wolves striker Jorgen Strand-Larsen, beating Leeds United to his signature. This deal is contingent on the club receiving funds from Mateta's sale to AC Milan, highlighting the interconnected nature of deadline day business. The potential arrival of Strand-Larsen could inject fresh firepower into Palace's attack, offering a dynamic option in the final third.
Overall, Crystal Palace's deadline day activity promises to reshape their squad, with defensive additions and a high-profile striker signing on the horizon. Fans will be watching closely as the clock ticks down to see which rumours become reality.
