Coventry City manager Frank Lampard is actively working to strengthen his squad this January, with a loan move for Crystal Palace winger Romain Esse emerging as a primary target.
Sky Blues Seek Reinforcements for Promotion Push
Despite leading the Championship table by a significant eight-point margin and losing just three of their 25 league games, Lampard is not content to stand still. The former Chelsea boss believes fresh talent is required to cement their position and secure a return to the Premier League.
The club's recent form, while still strong, has seen them fail to win a match by more than a single goal since November. This has prompted Lampard to look for additions who can provide a cutting edge in the final stages of the season.
Esse Emerges as Key Target
The player in Lampard's sights is England Under-21 international Romain Esse. The 20-year-old winger joined Crystal Palace from Millwall for £14.5 million in January 2025, following impressive performances in the second tier.
However, his time at Selhurst Park has been challenging, with just two Premier League appearances this season. Palace's imminent signing of Brennan Johnson from Tottenham for £35 million is set to push Esse further down the pecking order, making a loan exit likely.
According to reports, talks have been opened between Coventry and Palace, with Lampard hopeful of concluding a deal swiftly. Coventry are not alone in their interest, with several other Championship clubs also monitoring the situation.
Context of Coventry's Transfer Window
While looking to bring players in, Coventry have also had to manage interest in their own squad. Striker Haji Wright and forward Ellis Simms had attracted attention from West Ham United, but the Hammers now appear to be pursuing other targets.
On the pitch, Coventry began the new year with a 1-1 draw against Charlton Athletic on January 1st. Lampard acknowledged the team's current challenges, stating, "We are in a busy period where we are really stretched... We are not as clinical as we were earlier in the season but that was always going to come."
Securing a talent like Romain Esse could be the key to restoring that clinical edge and ensuring Coventry's impressive campaign ends in promotion.
