Crystal Palace are in the dire need of goals. The Eagles got off to a dreadful start as they lost their third consecutive match at the hand of Swansea City this weekend. Frank de Boer definitely has some work to do before the transfer market closes on 31st August.
The Eagles need something to change, to give their lacklustre start a push. Hopes have started to fade away after back to back losses but they certainly do have the belief and inspiration to bounce back.
De Boer’s arrival has raised the expectations of the supporters but the performance of their beloved team has started to raise questions already. De Boer currently has Christian Benteke as his only recognised striker as Connor Wickham is still recovering from his horrific knee injury.
The manager has emphasized the need of a player up front to introduce some competition to Benteke. “I think we still need some players. If some players get injured it will get a little bit narrow.”For example, a striker behind Christian (Benteke), we don’t really have a really competitive striker behind Christian,” he said in an interview recently.
Let’s have a look at three such players who might yet to arrive at the Selhurst Park this summer.
Aleksandar Mitrovic
De Boer is looking for a short term option and who better than this Newcastle United marks man? The experienced forward is certainly not the preferred choice at the St James’ Park and Rafa Benitez is unlikely to block his departure should an opportunity arrive.
The Serbian international looked lively on a number of occasions although his main problem is discipline and inconsistency. He has worked on his disciplinary problems and his arrival could be a boon in disguise for the Eagles.
Islam Slimani
Leicester City does have the most intriguing lineup of forwards in the Premier League. The likes of Jamie Vardy, Ahmed Musa and Leonardo Ulloa’s presence hasn’t been good for Slimani as it has curtailed his game time heavily.
Craig Shakespeare is looking to offload a number of players to balance his side and Slimani might get the boot. Palace needs goals and the Algerian forward can be destructive at times, and add that missing flair in attack.
Shane Long
A surprise inclusion in this list. The Southampton forward is not among those prolific scorers but can be very effective. With Benteke being the first choice, Long would do good as a backup. There is no doubt in his talent and if he can establish a partnership with Benteke, Palace can have a chance to better their prospects this season.
