Woody Johnson, owner of the New York Jets, is in talks to acquire John Textor’s shares in Crystal Palace, potentially boosting the FA Cup winners’ chances of competing in the Europa League next season. Despite offers below Textor’s valuation, Johnson’s bid of £190m appears to be the most promising, given his background and financial standing. Textor is reportedly inclined to accept Johnson’s offer, as he faces pressure from Palace’s co-owners to finalize the sale promptly in anticipation of Uefa’s decision on the club’s European participation.

Textor, a majority shareholder in Lyon, has been at odds with Palace’s board, prompting the push for a sale. Uefa had previously rejected attempts by Textor and co-owner Blitzer to place their shares in a blind trust due to missed deadlines. Johnson’s bid is supported by Palace chairman Steve Parish, who was seen with Johnson at a recent match. The club remains optimistic about their Europa League prospects, although Nottingham Forest may contest Uefa’s decision due to concerns about multi-club ownership rules.

In a separate development, Textor has listed his holding company, Eagle Football, for an IPO in the US, with plans to go public in September. Meanwhile, Liverpool is expected to make a bid for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi, while Jarell Quansah is set to join Bayer Leverkusen. Palace rejected a previous offer from Tottenham for Guéhi, but Liverpool is reportedly confident in securing a deal. Quansah, currently at the European Championships, is poised to sign a five-year contract with Leverkusen. These potential transfers could reshape Palace’s squad ahead of the upcoming season.