- Crystal Palace’s Evann Guessand clause expires
- Ivorian is no longer an Eagles player
- Club must decide whether to try and sign him
Crystal Palace’s hope of securing a permanent deal for loan star Evann Guessand has been cast into serious doubt. While many of the club’s fanbase are eager to see the forward extend his stay in south-east London permanently, the situation has grown complicated.
According to The Standard, a deadline has officially passed, leaving the forward’s future completely up in the air. His last game for the club came in the UEFA Conference League final win as things stand.
Guessand might be pondering whether to remain at Selhurst Park under a new manager. Oliver Glasner played an important role in convincing him to make the loan switch in January.
Guessand’s clause expires
Guessand initially arrived at Selhurst Park on loan from Aston Villa during the January transfer window. Included in that winter agreement was a fixed £28 million option-to-buy clause, giving Palace total control over making his stay permanent.
The crucial option-to-buy clause officially expired yesterday. That means if Palace want to sign the player, they will have to make an offer.
Because Palace didn’t take up the clause in time, they have lost their exclusive window. While the Eagles do remain genuinely interested in the 24-year-old Ivory Coast international, they no longer hold the cards.
Instead, they are now expected to face fierce competition from a host of rival clubs across both England and Europe who are looking to hijack the signature. He had been in demand before heading to Villa from OGC Nice in last summer’s transfer window.
Why the Deal Has Stalled
A permanent move initially felt like a no-brainer. The versatile forward enjoyed a highly productive start to life in south London and even came off the bench last week to help us lift the Conference League trophy.
That said, there are two roadblocks that have stopped the £28m deal from being signed, sealed, and delivered. Injury setbacks halted the Ivorian’s momentum late in the campaign.
There is also a lack of understanding of whom he’ll be playing under come next season. Reports seem to suggest Pierre Sage is now the frontrunner and they will know one another from their time in Ligue 1.
What looked like a straightforward bit of summer business has turned into a bit of a headache. Palace fans will likely have to wait until a new manager is appointed before seeing if the club will fight the open market to bring Guessand back.
