Crystal Palace is actively planning its squad for the upcoming season, with a focus on bolstering their team for a Europa League tilt. The club is looking to sign a centre back, a central midfielder, and a number 10, regardless of player sales.
Contract Negotiations and Player Retention
Defender Chris Richards is expected to resume contract talks following the World Cup. Richards, who joined Palace in 2022 from Bayern Munich and has made 122 appearances, is entering the final season of his contract, with an option for an additional year. Both parties had constructive negotiations before the World Cup, which were paused to allow the United States international to focus on the tournament. Richards has expressed contentment at Palace, having won multiple trophies. He played a key role in the team's defence, which has been integral to their success under manager Pierre Sage.
Fan favorite Dean Henderson is also set for contract talks as a reward for his performances. Discussions will center on his increased role as captain and his contributions during the team's successful period. Henderson, who joined from Manchester United in 2023, has made 116 appearances for the Eagles and captained the team to a Conference League title.
Midfielder Daichi Kamada is close to an agreement on a new deal. Kamada, who joined Palace two seasons ago, has expressed a desire to remain at the club, citing the opportunity to play in the Premier League, a European league, and London, while maintaining a familiar environment for his family. He has formed a strong midfield partnership with Adam Wharton.
Transfer Market and Player Departures
While Chelsea has expressed admiration for defender Maxence Lacroix, Crystal Palace insists there has been no contact from the London club. Lacroix has three years remaining on his contract, and Palace would demand a fee exceeding £52 million, the amount Brighton secured for Jan Paul van Hecke. Lacroix is currently with France at the World Cup.
Jean-Philippe Mateta, a prolific striker with three consecutive seasons of over 10 goals, is not expected to be sold cheaply. Palace is relaxed about his situation, with a year remaining on his contract, and would prefer to retain his services for the Europa League campaign. Mateta's desire to move was previously thwarted by a failed medical at AC Milan.
Academy product Jesurun Rak-Sakyi is likely to depart this summer. After an impressive loan spell at Charlton Athletic, he has struggled to replicate that form. He spent time on loan in Turkey and at Stoke City last season. Palace had previously set an asking price of £15 million, but this figure has decreased as he has only one year left on his contract. Rak-Sakyi is prioritizing a move to a top-flight club, with a European transfer being the most likely outcome.
Pre-Season Preparations
Crystal Palace will commence their pre-season preparations against Swindon Town on July 18th, marking manager Pierre Sage's first game in charge. This will be followed by a match against League One side Bromley. The team will then participate in the Como Cup in Italy, featuring two 45-minute matches and one 90-minute match. There will be no home friendly at Selhurst Park due to ongoing stadium works. The Eagles will also travel to Freiburg the weekend before the season begins.
The club's extensive involvement in the World Cup, with 12 players participating, presents a challenge for Sage, limiting his time to implement his tactics with the majority of the regular starters before the season commences.