Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has confirmed that young winger Romain Esse will be absent from the squad for Wednesday night's Premier League fixture against Aston Villa, with a loan move to Coventry City imminent.
Esse's Loan Move Confirmed Amid Squad Reshuffle
The 20-year-old forward, who joined the Eagles from Millwall a year ago and scored on his debut against Brentford, has found first-team opportunities limited this season. Despite being a regular on the bench and making substitute appearances in the last three matches, Glasner believes a temporary departure is the best course of action for his development.
Speaking ahead of the Villa Park encounter, Glasner stated, "It looks like Romain Esse will join Coventry on loan. He won't be part of the squad against Villa. It's better for him to go on loan and get some minutes." This decision follows the club's significant £35 million acquisition of winger Brennan Johnson from Tottenham Hotspur, who made his debut in the recent 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United.
Palace's Search for Firepower Continues with Osula Interest
Despite securing Johnson's services, Crystal Palace's activity in the January transfer window is not over. The South London club are reportedly keeping tabs on Newcastle United striker William Osula as they seek to bolster their attacking options.
The 22-year-old Danish forward, formerly of Sheffield United, has been sidelined since November with an ankle injury. However, his absence has not deterred interest, with Palace, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Aston Villa all linked with a potential move this month.
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe addressed the speculation, indicating a sale is not expected but leaving the door slightly ajar. "I think the only way that we would consider that would be for his development and growth in terms of benefiting his career to play," Howe said, "but always with a view to him coming back to us."
Pressure Mounts on Glasner Amid Poor Run
The transfer moves come at a critical time for Oliver Glasner's side. Crystal Palace are currently without a win in their last seven matches across all competitions, a slump that has seen them slide to 14th in the Premier League table after 20 games.
The demanding festive schedule, combined with absences due to the Africa Cup of Nations, has taken a toll on the squad. Glasner has been vocal about the need for reinforcements this month to reverse the team's fortunes and provide a much-needed boost for the second half of the season.
All eyes will now be on whether the club can secure a deal for Osula or other targets to provide more depth and quality in the final third, as they aim to climb the table and secure their top-flight status.
