Régis Le Bris
Two significant transfer stories have emerged for Crystal Palace as they prepare for their Premier League encounter with Sunderland. The focus is on striker Jean-Philippe Mateta and midfielder Adam Wharton, both of whom are attracting attention from top clubs.
Régis Le Bris said: “I’m really positive, really positive because one of the main challenges when you get promoted like that is to strengthen the squad, and it’s not an easy task because the investment, the way you work together to recruit so many new players, is a massive challenge, and I think so far we are really good. I’m thinking about the owner, the sporting direction, the recruitment structure and everyone who was involved in that process. I think it’s really impressive. After that, obviously, you have to face new challenges and to put into practice the quality of the squad, and it’s a process. At the minute, I’m happy.”
Régis Le Bris continued: “Among the standout arrivals was Switzerland international Granit Xhaka, who joined from Bayer Leverkusen in a deal worth around £17.5million. Asked if he could have imagined such backing when he took charge, Le Bris admitted: ‘I don’t know. It’s a good question. I’m happy, I repeat, I’m happy with the process, the energy of the club, the ambition, the desire to seize this opportunity. We know that to grow as a club in this league, it’s a tough challenge. It’s not linear, so we don’t know what will happen in the future. But right now, at the minute, we can feel that we are well-organised and ambitious.'”
Jean-Philippe Mateta, 28, is reportedly uninterested in a move to Leeds United, despite their interest. However, Aston Villa has emerged as a potential destination for the French striker, who joined Crystal Palace on an 18-month loan from Mainz in January 2021. Since then, he has become a regular fixture at the club. Meanwhile, Adam Wharton, the 21-year-old midfielder, is attracting interest from Liverpool and Newcastle United, with Chelsea and Manchester United also closely monitoring his progress. Wharton joined Palace from Blackburn Rovers in February 2024 for an initial £18 million, rising to £22 million. Despite a groin injury that sidelined him for three months, Wharton returned to play a pivotal role in Palace’s FA Cup victory over Manchester City, marking the club’s first major trophy.
As Crystal Palace prepares to face Sunderland, Régis Le Bris’ side is buoyed by a strong start to the season, securing six points from their first three matches. The team has achieved home victories against West Ham and Brentford, although they suffered a defeat against Burnley. Le Bris remains optimistic about Sunderland’s chances of survival, praising the club’s recruitment efforts and the significant backing received, including the acquisition of Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen.
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