Crystal Palace to Compete in UEFA Conference League After CAS Upholds Europa League Demotion

Crystal Palace will participate in the UEFA Conference League next season after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) upheld UEFA’s decision to demote the club from the Europa League.

The ruling confirms UEFA’s earlier determination, which had been contested by the Premier League side. CAS concluded that the original decision complied with all applicable regulations and will remain in force.

The development marks a setback for Palace, who had initially secured Europa League qualification. The shift to the Conference League may have both sporting and financial implications, given the lower revenue potential compared to the Europa League.

Club chairman Steve Parish acknowledged the ruling’s impact, adding that key defender Marc Guehi’s future remains uncertain. Parish confirmed that Guehi must either agree to a contract extension or be sold this summer. The England international’s current deal runs until 2026.

Transfer market sources indicate that Guehi could be available for around €40 million, a figure likely to attract interest from top European clubs. His potential departure could further challenge Palace’s competitiveness in continental and domestic competitions.

Football analysts suggest the ruling may prompt the club to reassess its squad strategy, balancing financial sustainability with on-field ambitions. Meanwhile, supporters have expressed disappointment but remain hopeful of a strong showing in Europe’s third-tier competition.

Jack Grealish Set for Everton Loan as Manchester City Pursue Rodrygo

Everton have reached an agreement with Manchester City for the loan signing of Jack Grealish, with the midfielder scheduled to undergo a medical later today. The deal includes a £50 million buy option, which is not mandatory, and the player retains the final decision on a permanent move.

Grealish has approved Everton’s project and is expected to complete the transfer within 24 hours. The 28-year-old will become a new addition for manager David Moyes, with final paperwork currently being exchanged between the two clubs.

Manchester City, meanwhile, are preparing for multiple squad changes. Alongside Grealish’s exit, James McAtee and Savinho are also set to leave. City have identified Real Madrid forward Rodrygo as a primary target, with manager Pep Guardiola described as a strong admirer. Real Madrid are open to a sale if the player wishes to depart, with a reported asking price of around €100 million.

In a separate development, Nottingham Forest are close to securing McAtee on a permanent deal. Personal terms have been agreed, and negotiations between Forest and City are in the final stages. The transfer fee is expected to exceed £20 million, with completion anticipated shortly.

Regarding Savinho, Tottenham Hotspur have submitted an initial proposal valued at €50 million. Manchester City are seeking a higher fee but remain open to a sale, as the player is keen on the move. Negotiations are ongoing, with both clubs aiming to reach an agreement under City’s conditions.

PSG Close to £57.1m Deal for Bournemouth Defender Illia Zabarnyi

Paris Saint-Germain are on the verge of signing Bournemouth centre-back Illia Zabarnyi for £57.1m. The 22-year-old Ukraine international has travelled to Paris, having agreed personal terms on a five-year contract with the European champions.

The transfer is expected to be worth £54.5m upfront, with an additional £2.6m in performance-related bonuses. While the player’s medical is scheduled, both clubs are still finalising the agreement.

Zabarnyi’s departure would mark Bournemouth’s third high-profile defensive sale this transfer window. Dean Huijsen left for Real Madrid in a £50m move, while Milos Kerkez joined Liverpool for £40m. Collectively, the sales position the club for a significant profit but leave a major rebuilding task in defence.

Signed from Dynamo Kyiv in 2023 for £24m, Zabarnyi quickly became a key figure in Bournemouth’s back line. Huijsen cost £12.6m from Juventus last summer, and Kerkez arrived from AZ Alkmaar for £15.5m.

To fill the gap, Bournemouth have secured a deal for Lille’s Bafode Diakite. The French defender will join for £30m, potentially rising to £34m with add-ons.

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