This summer’s transfer window was expected to be a defining one for Crystal Palace, one where they could build on last season’s successes and shape the future of the club for the better.
After last season’s historic campaign that saw the Eagles lift the FA Cup and qualify for European competition for the first time ever, fans were anticipating a busy offseason.
Yet, with just a month remaining, Crystal Palace have spent a measly £2 million, the second lowest amount among Premier League sides, just ahead of Fulham.
The lack of business is staggering. Oliver Glasner is already working with a thin squad, and with an extra competition next campaign, the need for reinforcements is obvious.
Crystal Palace will be regularly playing two matches a week. Depth these days is a necessity, not a luxury.
Glasner Expresses His Frustrations with Crystal Palace’s Lack of Transfer Activity
Just like last summer, Crystal Palace appear to be leaving their business until the end of the window, and although things worked out in the end, it came at the cost of a sluggish start, something Oliver Glasner was keen to avoid this time around.
The Austrian was promised by the board that signings would be made early, giving him enough time to integrate them into the current group and get them accustomed to the style of play.
So far, only Walter Benítez and Borna Sosa have walked through the door, with the former a free transfer.
Glasner has made no secret of his frustrations. In an interview with Austrian newspaper Kronen Zeitung he said:
“Even though all the players are still here, we haven’t made the most of the transfer window so far.
“I was promised that we would be more active and bring in the new players earlier this year.”
It’s a concerning repeat of past mistakes, and Glasner’s growing unease could spell trouble if Palace fail to give him what they promised.
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Is the Ongoing European Saga Playing a Factor?
Much of the summer’s off-field drama has centred around Crystal Palace’s controversial expulsion from the Europa League.
While it’s unclear whether their appeal to the CAS will be successful or not, their dealings in the courtroom shouldn’t impact what goes on in the boardroom.
Palace will be playing in some form of European competition next season, and that continental platform should be a major selling point to prospective signings.
However, that doesn’t appear to be the case, suggesting there may be there are other issues at play.
The arrival of billionaire Woody Johnson would likely suggest finances shouldn’t be a problem, but the real problem lies in the form of poor planning and operational inefficiency.
Crystal Palace have developed a reputation for reactive, last-minute recruitment and this summer seems to be following the same frustrating pattern.
What should have been a transformational window is quickly descending into a missed opportunity.
Unless things take a drastic turn within the next month, it could be a long season for the Eagles, one that will leave fans wondering what could have been.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Crystal Pix
Recording Date: 01.08.2025