Crystal Palace is reportedly planning to strengthen their attacking options in the upcoming January transfer window, with the club setting its sights on signing a forward. The Premier League side, currently navigating a mid-table campaign, is looking to add more depth to their attacking unit as they push to improve their offensive output in the second half of the season.
The Eagles, under manager Roy Hodgson, have shown flashes of solid performances this season, particularly in their defensive solidity, but they have struggled at times to convert chances into goals. Despite the presence of key forwards like Wilfried Zaha and Odsonne Édouard, Palace has often found themselves lacking a clinical edge in the final third. As a result, the club is keen to explore options in the transfer market to provide more firepower and competition for places in attack.
Sources close to the club have confirmed that Palace is eyeing a potential forward signing this winter, with several names being linked to Selhurst Park. The club has been actively monitoring the market and is expected to target both established and emerging talents who can make an immediate impact. Crystal Palace’s recruitment team, led by sporting director Dougie Freedman, is reportedly casting a wide net in their search for the right fit.
One of the primary focuses for the club will be finding a versatile forward who can operate across the frontline, adding flexibility to Hodgson’s tactical setup. While Palace has Zaha, their talismanic winger who is often deployed as a forward, the team has occasionally lacked a central striker who can provide a consistent goal threat. Odsonne Édouard has shown glimpses of his quality but has struggled for consistency at times. Meanwhile, the club’s younger attacking options, such as Jean-Philippe Mateta and Malcolm Ebiowei, have been inconsistent, and Palace is keen to bolster this department with a player who can add both depth and quality.
A player with Premier League experience is thought to be high on Palace’s list, as the club looks to avoid the risk of a foreign signing that may need time to adapt to English football. The club is reportedly considering both domestic and international options, with a keen eye on forwards who can make an immediate impact, particularly in terms of finishing chances.
One potential candidate who has surfaced in recent weeks is Keinan Davis, the 26-year-old Aston Villa forward currently on loan at Watford. Davis, known for his powerful physique and ability to hold the ball up in tight situations, has impressed in the Championship and could be an ideal fit for a Premier League side like Palace. His physical presence and aerial ability would add a different dimension to Palace’s attack, especially in games where they need a more direct approach.
Another name on the radar is Cucho Hernández, who has been in excellent form for Watford since his move from Serie A. The Colombian striker’s pace and sharp finishing make him an intriguing prospect for Palace, who could look to bolster their attacking pace and creativity alongside Zaha.
Palace is also exploring other options in the international market, including talents from the Bundesliga and La Liga, where the club has had previous success with signings like Joachim Andersen and Marc Guéhi. A forward with technical ability and experience in European competitions could be a shrewd acquisition to help Palace compete at the highest level in the Premier League.
Despite financial constraints that many mid-table clubs face, Palace is believed to have the funds to secure a forward if the right opportunity presents itself. With Zaha’s future still uncertain—his contract is set to expire in the summer—the addition of a new attacking option could also provide insurance against any potential departure of their star man.
Crystal Palace fans will undoubtedly be hoping for a strong addition to their attacking ranks in January, as the club looks to build on its solid defensive foundation and push for a top-half finish in the Premier League. With the transfer window fast approaching, all eyes will be on Selhurst Park to see which forward they bring in to bolster their attacking line.
