Crystal Palace have reportedly contemplated a late push for Celtic star Auston Trusty in the dying embers of the winter transfer window.
Crystal Palace have explored a potential late move for Auston Trusty as they continue their search for defensive reinforcements ahead of the transfer deadline. With time running out, the Eagles have been casting the net wide across Europe in an effort to strengthen Oliver Glasner’s backline.
According to TEAMtalk, Palace’s recruitment team have monitored a number of centre-back options in recent weeks, including Joel Ordonez, Josh Acheampong, and Celtic’s Trusty. Alongside that, the South London club have also opened discussions with Brentford over a possible move for Ethan Pinnock, highlighting the urgency of their late-window plans.
Trusty, however, remains a particularly interesting profile for Crystal Palace. The American centre-back has impressed during his time with Celtic, and the Eagles have taken note of his composure and physicality, especially with barely any time left to address their defensive needs. While no formal bid has yet materialised, the interest reflects Palace’s awareness of the gap that still exists at the heart of defence.
The 27-year-old’s career path has been anything but straightforward. After joining Arsenal from Colorado Rapids in January 2022, Trusty never made a senior appearance for the Gunners. Instead, he continued his development through a loan spell at Birmingham City before securing a permanent move to Sheffield United.
Despite making 32 Premier League appearances, he was unable to prevent the Blades from suffering relegation in a historically difficult campaign. A switch to Celtic has since revitalised his career. Trusty has settled well in Glasgow, collecting two domestic trophies and earning the trust of Brendan Rodgers, who handed him responsibility in high-level UEFA Champions League fixtures.
The American defender’s performances against Atalanta and Bayern Munich, in particular, underlined his ability to compete at elite European level. Although Celtic have looked more vulnerable defensively this season, his departure would still represent a major loss for the Scottish champions.
For Crystal Palace, the need is clear. The recent departure of former captain Marc Guehi to Manchester City has left a leadership void in defence, and Glasner is keen to address that before the window shuts.
Whether the Eagles ultimately push ahead with a move for Trusty or turn to an alternative option remains to be seen, but his name is firmly on their shortlist as the deadline approaches. However, as revealed by the story, others like Ethan Pinnock are also on Crystal Palace’s wishlist.
