Crystal Palace are reportedly considering a move to bring Evann Guessand back to Selhurst Park this summer, just months after his temporary stint with the club. The Eagles, who secured Europa Conference League glory last season, have renewed their interest in the Aston Villa forward after initially declining the chance to sign him permanently earlier in the transfer window.
Guessand's Struggles at Villa
Guessand joined Aston Villa from OGC Nice last summer but failed to make a significant impact, netting only twice in the first half of the campaign. His lack of form prompted a loan switch to Palace in January, where he hoped to rediscover his best football. During his time with the Eagles, the 25-year-old featured in 14 matches, scoring two goals and providing one assist. However, the loan agreement did not include a mandatory purchase clause, and Palace opted not to exercise their option to make the move permanent at the time.
Now, following an unimpressive pre-season tour of the Far East with Villa, the club could be willing to part ways with Guessand once again. Palace are keen to strengthen their squad ahead of their Europa League campaign, and the French forward has emerged as a viable target.
Managerial Familiarity and Squad Dynamics
Pierre Sage, who spent three years managing in Ligue 1 with Lyon and Lens, is well acquainted with Guessand's capabilities. Sage understands the qualities the forward brings when he is confident and at his peak, which could prove pivotal in any potential deal. Palace's interest is not without logic, as Guessand's pace and directness could add a new dimension to their attack.
For Villa, offloading Guessand, along with Leon Bailey, who has been linked with Hull City, would free up both budget and squad space. This would allow manager Unai Emery to bring in another attacking option to bolster his ranks. Currently, Villa's attacking depth appears thin, with Alejandro Garnacho, John McGinn, Emi Buendia, and Alysson the only recognised options to support the main striker in the three advanced roles.
Pre-Season and Upcoming Fixtures
Villa's immediate focus remains on their pre-season schedule. They face Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday, a high-profile clash that will test their readiness. Following that, they travel to Germany to take on Borussia Mönchengladbach on Saturday, concluding their preparations for the new season.
As speculation intensifies, fans are eager to see how Guessand's situation unfolds. Whether he stays at Villa or returns to Palace, his future is set to be a talking point in the coming weeks.
