‘Crystal Palace’s big-money signing plan’ revealed by top source
Crystal Palace are planning to spend big money to strengthen their squad this summer after qualifying for their maiden Europa League campaign.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that the FA Cup winners are determined to continue improving.
Oliver Glasner’s previous experience in the competition means he will know what he needs in his squad, and he will work closely with Steve Parish to achieve that.
However, Palace have been warned that failure to adequately strengthen their squad could have a direct impact on their performances in the league.
The Eagles suffered with fitness issues at the beginning of this season when their international stars returned, and are keen not to suffer the same issues with the additional games.
This comes after former Everton CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider that Palace will spend their Europa League riches on “wholesale changes” to their squad.
Crystal Palace eye ‘big’ summer overhaul after contract plans
Brown told Football Insider on 20 May that Crystal Palace are prioritising contract extensions with Glasner and Jean-Philippe Mateta first in line.
The former scout, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, insisted that the Eagles want to keep their best players while adding to their squad.
“Crystal Palace will find this out quickly,” he told Football Insider.
“Every club talks about wanting to qualify and play in Europe, but when the games start you quickly realise you haven’t got enough players.
“Everton and Burnley come to mind just as a couple of recent examples.
“All of a sudden, you’re playing Thursday – Sunday, and if you don’t have a big squad it’s difficult.
“You can pick up a few injuries and then your league form is impacted as a result.
“Palace saw themselves the difficulties of having a squad which isn’t fully fit at the start of this season, but they managed to turn it around.
“The Europa League brings a new challenge for them both on the pitch and off it too.
“They have to foresee the difficulties it brings and plan accordingly.
“That means being prepared to spend big money on the squad to be able to cope with the extra games, and I think that’s what they’ll be looking to do.
“The manager has been there before, he’ll know what he needs in his squad and he’ll work closely with the chairman to make sure they get what they need.
“On top of that, they’re planning to keep their best players at the club and build on that, rather than being forced to bring in replacements.”
Steve Parish plans Oliver Glasner contract talks
On top of their busy summer plans, Palace are also aiming to keep their manager at the club for the long-term future after his successful spell so far.
Brown told Football Insider on 25 May that Palace will open contract talks with Glasner at the end of the season after their FA Cup success.
This comes after Palace chairman Steve Parish confessed “We want to try and extend his contract, but it has to be right for everybody.” [The Guardian]
Football Insider revealed on 20 May that Palace will hold contract talks with Glasner and sources say he “would love” to lead his side out in the Europa League.
For more Crystal Palace and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.