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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Jack Rosser

Crystal Palace January transfer window guide: Eagles well-positioned but Patrick Vieira may want cover for AFCON stars

Crystal Palace's fine work in the summer transfer window has left them in a good position when it comes to deals in January.

It is often said that a well-run club does not need to act during the winter window, but where is the fun in that?

While Patrick Vieira is well set with his current squad there is no manager in the Premier League that feels there is no room for improvement once the market opens, and the Eagles boss will be no different.

Midfield may have been a concern for the Frenchman following injury to James McArthur, though the form of Will Hughes has eased any issues there while Eberechi Eze is working his way back to full fitness.

What Vieira may want to address, however, is the gap left by players who are set to be heading off for the Africa Cup of Nations next month.

Wilfried Zaha, Jeffrey Schlupp and Jordan Ayew are all set to play at the tournament, which will see players leave shortly after Christmas.

AFCON runs until early February, meaning Vieira will be without some key figures for a significant run of games. Bringing a wide player in on loan, one who is ready to hit the ground running and provide good cover, could be a good option should the opportunity arise, while some cover at left-back would not go amiss.

A loan or permanent exit for striker Jean-Philippe Mateta would certainly suit all parties next month after a miserable time of things at Selhurst Park.

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