Crystal Palace’s struggles in front of goal this season have been glaring, with the team managing just eight goals in their first 11 Premier League matches. Only Southampton has a worse offensive record, leaving the Eagles desperate for attacking reinforcements to turn their season around. Reports indicate that Palace’s recruitment team, led by Dougie Freedman, is preparing to bolster manager Oliver Glasner’s forward options when the January transfer window opens.
Here’s a closer look at the situation, the potential targets, and how the club’s ownership dynamics could play a role in their plans.
The Crisis: Lack of Goals and Creativity
The Eagles’ lacklustre attack has been exacerbated by the absence of creativity and sharpness in front of goal. Michael Olise’s reluctance to return from injury and the overall inefficiency of the forward line have compounded the issue. Despite creating a limited number of chances, Palace has been unable to convert when opportunities arise, leaving Glasner’s team in dire need of reinforcements.
Without a consistent goal threat, Crystal Palace has been overly reliant on defensive solidity to eke out results. However, this approach has left them vulnerable in games where scoring first could make a difference.
Potential January Targets
Oumar Diakite (Bayern Munich)
The young Bayern Munich forward has been linked with a potential permanent deal. While largely untested at the highest level, Diakite’s talent and upside could provide the Eagles with a fresh attacking dimension.
Mathys Tel (Loan)
Another Bayern Munich starlet, Mathys Tel, has been touted for a loan move. The French forward is highly rated but could benefit from consistent game time, which Palace can offer in their starting XI.
Romain Esse (Millwall)
The teenage sensation from Millwall has caught the attention of several Premier League clubs. Esse’s versatility and creativity could make him a valuable asset for Glasner as Palace seeks to rejuvenate its attacking midfield.
Mykhailo Mudryk (Chelsea)
Chelsea’s Ukrainian winger has been linked with a loan or permanent move, although this deal may prove challenging financially. Mudryk’s pace and ability to stretch defences could address Palace’s inability to break down compact opposition.
Luiz Henrique (Botafogo)
The most recent name to surface, Luiz Henrique, is a 23-year-old Brazilian winger valued at £25 million. Henrique has been a standout performer for Botafogo, drawing interest from multiple Premier League clubs, including Everton and Fulham. His speed, skill, and eye for goal make him an intriguing option for the Eagles.
The Luiz Henrique Advantage: John Textor’s Influence
Crystal Palace may hold an advantage in the race for Luiz Henrique due to the unique ownership situation involving John Textor. As a 45% shareholder in Crystal Palace and the owner of Botafogo, Textor could facilitate Henrique’s move to Selhurst Park. While Botafogo may be reluctant to sell, the connection between the two clubs could smooth negotiations and give the Eagles an edge over rivals.
However, Textor’s potential sale of his Crystal Palace shares adds a layer of uncertainty. The American businessman has been exploring options to offload his stake, which could lead to new ownership dynamics at Selhurst Park. While this may complicate certain aspects of the club’s strategy, it could also bring in fresh investment to support Glasner’s ambitions.
A Pivotal January Window for Palace
As the January transfer window approaches, Crystal Palace finds itself at a critical juncture. Reinforcing the attack is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. The team’s survival in the Premier League and aspirations for mid-table stability depend on addressing their goal-scoring woes.
With names like Henrique, Tel, and Mudryk on the radar, Dougie Freedman faces the challenge of making the right moves to give Glasner the tools he needs. Palace’s ownership situation adds another layer of intrigue, particularly with the possibility of a partial buyout following Textor’s potential sale.
If Freedman and Glasner can successfully integrate a high-calibre attacker into the squad, Crystal Palace might just find the spark they need to reignite their season. Until then, the Eagles’ faithful will be hoping for swift action to bring some much-needed firepower to Selhurst Park.
