Exclusive: Crystal Palace Work on Gareth Southgate Deal

Crystal Palace are accelerating plans to appoint former England manager and club legend Gareth Southgate as their next head coach, sources have exclusively told Football Insider. With current boss Oliver Glasner set to depart at the end of the 2025/26 season, the Selhurst Park hierarchy have initiated advanced talks with Southgate, viewing him as the ideal successor for the 2026/27 campaign.[1][3]

Southgate, who made over 150 appearances for Palace between 1988 and 1995 as a player, has been out of management for 18 months since stepping down from the England job. Despite recent links and initial discussions, sources indicate he is not rushing back to club football and would require a "really impressive project" to commit imminently. However, Palace's ambition, bolstered by recent signings like Jorgen Strand Larsen from Wolves, aligns with what could tempt the 55-year-old back to South London.[1][2][3]

The club held talks with Glasner following his recent outburst but remain confident he will see out the season, allowing time to plan a seamless transition. Southgate's last Premier League stint was in 2009, but his successful England tenure—marked by deep tournament runs—has kept him high on shortlists. Palace see his experience and club ties as a major coup.[1][3]

Alternatives like Thomas Frank, recently sacked by Tottenham after success at Brentford, are under consideration. Frank's track record with similar budgets makes him attractive, though Southgate remains the priority. Palace are also scouting young talents like Coventry's 22-year-old centre-back Hughes as a long-term replacement for Marc Guehi.[1][3][4]

Betting odds and insider reports position Southgate as the favourite, with Palace pushing to finalize a deal that could see the ex-Eagles defender return home in a managerial capacity.[2][3]

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