Crystal Palace: How uncertainty over Oliver Glasner’s future lays heavy before club’s European bow

That prospect isn’t being completely discounted, although the initial indications aren’t entirely positive.

Sources close to Palace claim the chances of Glasner staying are remote, that the perceived transfer inactivity over the summer was taken as a sign that he and the club are not aligned in terms of their ambitions.

That’s not to say the Eagles will give up trying to convince him to continue.

If Palace were to provide the former Eintracht Frankfurt coach with certain guarantees and control over transfer operations, that may be enough of an incentive for the Austrian to – at the very least – have discussions over the future.

With that said, though, it has been pointed out to BBC Sport it was Glasner who effectively vetoed Guehi’s move to Liverpool on deadline day, despite both clubs agreeing a fee. So, in essence, he already has a significant grip on transfer matters.

Interestingly, it is understood former Wolves sporting director Matt Hobbs has now formally started work at Selhurst Park, replacing the departed Dougie Freedman, although Palace are yet to officially announce their new executive’s arrival.

Hobbs, you’d imagine, has his own ideas with regards to the club’s future recruitment plans and it remains to be seen whether that synergises with Glasner’s views.

It will also be interesting to see how Palace intend to resolve the issues surrounding Guehi and Wharton in the coming months.

With Guehi, 25, expected to leave on a free, a new central defender will need to be signed without the financial benefit of an incoming transfer fee.

In terms of Wharton, the club are open to extending the 21-year-old’s deal, which expires in 2029.

The insertion of a release clause, which would likely run beyond the £75m mark, could be beneficial to all parties if an agreement over a new deal is possible.

In terms of future midfield additions, it is understood Palace have an interest in AZ Alkmaar’s 19-year-old Dutchman Kees Smit.

You wonder, though, how Glasner would feel about continuing without Guehi and possibly Wharton, having already seen Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze depart?

What is clear is his stock is at an all-time high. Bigger clubs are certainly taking notice.

Multiple sources have told BBC Sport Glasner would be on a list of candidates to replace Ruben Amorim at Manchester United, although Old Trafford insiders insist they remain in support of their under-pressure manager and no candidate shortlists have been compiled.

Having tried and failed to appoint Glasner in the summer of 2024, Bayern Munich are also keeping a watchful eye, but there is no hint of Vincent Kompany being under scrutiny.

It has also been pointed out to BBC Sport that, while Glasner is viewed as one of the best out-of-possession coaches in Europe, it would be intriguing to see how he would set up a team expected to dominate the ball.

As enticing as managing a top club may be, the grass isn’t always greener.

He has built something special at Selhurst Park and appears to have an affinity with his players, while the supporters adore him.

What if Palace, somehow, qualify for the Champions League. Would that be a factor in his decision?

Glasner is an intelligent guy and will know that dynamic isn’t easily nurtured.

Nevertheless, Palace know the time will eventually come for Glasner to depart for a bigger side – they just hope they can somehow persuade him to put off the inevitable for as long as possible.