Selhurst Park was a hub of activity on Thursday when rumours of a possible stadium rebranding picked up pace.
The Croydon Advertiser posted an article with a picture of an exterior stadium map that suggested the ground was to be called the 12Bet Stadium. Fans seemed divided on this potential change as arguments of history and tradition were countered with the need for money and the fact it wouldn’t change anything with the fans.
Speculation persisted until co-chairman Stephen Browett took to an online fans forum to allay concerns. Whilst it would seem the company could be involved with the ground in some way, naming rights was not to be one.
Whether fans reaction stalled any potential deal or not, the situation certainly brought up a big talking point for Palace fans and put a focus on the owners.
Another big talking point that will put focus on the owners is the rumour of Darren Bent’s transfer to the Eagles. The owners will come under scrutiny, as all owners do when dealing in the transfer market, to see how they handle the situation and what the outcome ends up being.
There is, understandably, nothing official from Palace in regards to an approach but the local and national media have picked up the story, and the supporters have been discussing the move on social media.
It would certainly be a marquee signing for the Eagles and would overshadow the arrival of Marouane Chamakh, who was officially confirmed as a Palace player by the club on Monday.
The rumour also gives Palace fans the chance to consider a possible strike partnership between Bent and Chamakh, which of course has the potential to be extremely effective. Like all transfers it is also has the possibility of failing, but with Holloway likely to want to focus on attack throughout the campaign it should favour a few goals.
Unless you’re involved in the transfer negotiations, there is no way anyone can tell how far along the line this is. Is it interest submitted? Bid made? Bid accepted? Until a deal for Darren Bent is done with any club it is unlikely anyone will know, but it is speculation that will keep feeding the national sports pages because of its potential impact on the player, out of contention for England, and the club.
Another transfer that would appear to have been completed is that of Neil Alexander, the ex-Rangers goalkeeper, according to the Croydon Guardian on Wednesday morning.
As of the time of writing the club have not made an official announcement but bringing in back-up for Julian Speroni will certainly help to create competition for places in the shot-stopper department, and add further experience to the squad along with Chamakh.
One final small note, the club confirmed on Wednesday that Palace will play a friendly at Selhurst Park against the Oman national team on Tuesday 10th September, during the international break.
With the season commencing on Sunday, there is bound to be all sorts of bits and pieces happening over the coming seven days, and they’ll be reviewed here next week.
Daniel Smith - @dmsmith1987