Crystal Palace is bracing themselves for a tough battle to keep their talented midfielder, Michael Olise, as both Manchester City and Chelsea express interest in signing the young star.
Eagles manager Roy Hodgson voiced concerns about the mounting interest in Olise and highlighted the significant work ahead for the club’s chairman, Steve Parish, and sporting director, Dougie Freedman, as the transfer window approaches its closure.
The situation has been compounded by the loss of key players during this transfer window. Wilfried Zaha’s departure on a free transfer to Galatasaray dealt a significant blow to the club’s attacking prowess.
Additionally, senior figures James McArthur and Luka Milivojevic also left the club after the end of their contracts.
While Crystal Palace managed to secure the services of Jefferson Lerma on a free transfer from Bournemouth, the club’s incoming transfer activity has been relatively modest, with a promising £17 million deal for Brazilian teenager Matheus Franca close to completion.
Michael Olise’s start to the new season has been marred by a hamstring injury he sustained during the Under-21 Euros, further complicating the club’s preparations.
Hodgson emphasized the importance of Olise to the team, highlighting his exceptional performance on the right side, along with the loss of Zaha on the left. However, Hodgson acknowledged that Olise’s future at the club might be in jeopardy due to the interest shown by top clubs.
The manager also pointed out the challenges faced by the team due to the departure of five senior players from the previous season.
The arrival of Jefferson Lerma provides some reinforcement, but the team still feels the void left by the departure of key players who were instrumental in the squad’s success.
In their pre-season friendly against Sevilla, Crystal Palace fielded a strong starting XI. However, Hodgson emphasized the need for more depth and strength behind the starting lineup, which was lacking compared to the previous season.
The club’s chairman and sporting director have been tasked with the responsibility of reinforcing the squad before the transfer window closes at the end of August.