Crystal Palace lost many key players in the recent transfer window.
Michael Oris and Ebebeki Eze took the Eagles a step into their careers by joining Bayern Munich and Arsenal, respectively.
As the club focuses on things like Mark Guech and Adam Wharton, there is growing interest in more palace players.
Another palace player who attracted the attention of top clubs, Chris Richards has become quietly essential to the palace backline this season.
Ready to offer a new deal to Crystal Palace Richards
According to reports from Football Insider, Palace plans to offer Richards a new deal by the end of the season.
His current contract will be extended until 2027, but it appears the club has decided not to repeat mistakes with other players that ended when their contract expires.
Former Manchester United and Blackburn Chief Scout Mick Brown emphasized that Richards “established himself under Oliver Glasner.”
Brown pointed out that Richards offers underrated qualities at many clubs, air strength, consistency, solidity on the ground, and the ability to remain structured in difficult moments. These are attributes that, according to Brown, make Glasner love him.
“The Palace is determined to maintain the best players at the club.” He told the soccer insider.
“It’s something they need to work actively on and we’ll link these players to long-term deals so that they don’t end up in a situation similar to what they’re with Guehi.
“If you look at the players at Crystal Palace, they are very ambitious and they all work for a single cause.
“Richards was someone who stood out except for the usual star names like Guech and Mateta, which are often spoken in palaces.
“He’s the type of player who makes this palace team their own. He’s strong on the ground, strong in the air, quick, and most importantly consistent. That’s why Glasner loves him.
“As part of this team, it’s a way for you to build a side where you consistently pick up results, believe in yourself and have the ambition to continue moving forward.”
The palace must maintain the core of their team
Richards has featured in every minute of Palace’s Premier League campaign this season. His presence in the back three is at the heart of their defensive structure, contributing to a series of clean seats and stability in the back.
Whispering around futures for other palace players such as Guehi, Jean-Philippe Mateta, and Adam Wharton, and securing Richards becomes even more important.
If the palace can successfully lock him, they will secure a pillar of their defense and send a message that the core performers will be protected.
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