Crystal Palace is making a clear statement of intent. The club, currently battling for a historic top-four finish, has identified Brennan Johnson as the prime target to bolster their attacking options in January.
The Welsh international, who cost Spurs a hefty £47.5 million in the summer of 2023, has recently found himself struggling for starts under Thomas Frank, making his situation at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium ripe for exploitation.
The Glasner Push: Filling the AFCON Void
Manager Oliver Glasner is the driving force behind the interest. Palace is facing a defensive injury crisis but is particularly light in the wide attacking areas, a problem compounded by the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
AFCON Impact: With key Senegalese winger Ismaïla Sarr expected to join his national team in January, Palace urgently needs an established, high-quality Premier League winger.
Tactical Fit: Johnson’s profile—pace, directness, and ability to play on both flanks—is an ideal match for Glasner’s system, which relies on quick transitions and wing-back involvement. As one analyst noted, he needs space to run into, and Palace's counter-attacking setup would provide that in abundance.
Champions League Ambition: This signing is viewed as the "final piece" needed to strengthen the squad and maintain their challenge for a Champions League qualification spot.
Johnson’s Situation: From Hero to Outcast It has been a tumultuous season for the 24-year-old.
The High: Johnson scored the winning goal in the Europa League Final against Manchester United in May, instantly writing his name into Spurs history.
The Low: Since the arrival of Thomas Frank, Johnson has failed to cement a consistent starting role.
He has started only six of his 13 Premier League games this season and has been on the bench for the
majority of the recent matches, with Frank preferring Wilson Odobert and Mathias Tell.
The Metrics: He has failed to register a goal contribution in his last 11 Premier League appearances,
raising concerns among the Spurs faithful that his place in the long-term plan is uncertain.
The Transfer Hurdle: Valuation and Stance
The main sticking point will be the transfer fee.
Spurs' Stance: Tottenham does not want to lose a player they invested heavily in just over a year ago.
However, the club’s reluctance to sell may be tested by Johnson's desire for minutes and a significant cash offer.
Contract Status: Johnson is under contract until 2028, giving Spurs massive leverage.
The Asking Price: While Johnson's Transfermarkt valuation is around €35-40 million, Palace would likely need to bid closer to £50 million to make Spurs' hierarchy even consider selling a player they still view as having high potential. Palace is preparing to make contact once the window opens. If they can pry Johnson away from North London, it will be the clearest sign yet that they are serious about crashing the Premier League elite.
Do you think Brennan Johnson should push for a move to Crystal Palace to secure regular starting minutes and aid their Champions League push?