Crystal Palace’s 2021/22 season came to an end on Sunday with a 1-0 win over Manchester United at Selhurst Park, with attentions now turning to what many fans are hoping is a successful summer transfer window.
The Eagles took on a rebuilding project last year following the release of 11 first-team players whose contracts had expired, signing just over £60million worth of replacements to support Patrick Vieira during his first season in charge of the club. Those players complimented the existing squad already in south London, with Palace going on to record a 12th-placed Premier League finish and reach the semi-finals of the FA Cup with the team.
Now, the process is set to start again, with more players’ contracts running out and a host of new faces being tipped to come through the door and help Vieira build upon a successful season in south London. Former Eagle Aaron Wan-Bissaka has been touted with a move from Manchester United, midfielder Cheick Doucoure is reportedly close to a transfer to the Premier League while recently-released West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper Sam Johnstone might also be heading to SE25.
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For those players set to depart, the clock is ticking as to when Palace fans will know who is staying and who is going. If last year is any indication, an announcement of the layers being released will come at the beginning of June. Some of the key names to look out for on that list will include James McArthur, Jordan Ayew, Cheikhou Kouyate and Nathaniel Clyne.
There is already reason to suggest that McArthur has signed an extension to his deal in SE25, with Vieira hinting as much during the final months of the season. There are also reports that Ayew has extended his stay, though Palace fans will have to wait for updates on Kouyate, Clyne and James Tomkins.
One player who has already confirmed his exit is defender Martin Kelly, who has called time on an eight-year spell playing in red and blue. The 32-year-old made 148 appearances for the club but made just one outing for the senior team this year in the FA Cup win over Hartlepool United. Taking to social media, the veteran penned an emotional farewell upon his departure.
"To the fans, owners and managers at Crystal Palace FC," he shared on Instagram. "Thank you from me and my family. Since joining in August 2014 you guys have welcomed us like family, the loyalty you have shown us over the years I've already tried to repay with leaving nothing out there on the pitch. I came into a dressing room full of big characters and our top priority was always to compete in the Premier League - we did that.
"I feel now with the current manager and group of players, you guys have the best chance of going even further the next few seasons. Special memories me and my family will enjoy forever."
