Crystal Palace have made a concrete approach to AJ Auxerre regarding the transfer of midfielder Kévin Danois, with discussions centring on a fee of around €30 million excluding bonuses.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Premier League side are strongly interested in securing the 22-year-old French Under-21 international. The approach marks a significant step in Palace’s pursuit of the player, though no agreement has been finalised and negotiations remain at an early stage.
Rise through the ranks
Danois is a product of the renowned Auxerre academy and made his professional debut for the club in January 2023. He played an important role in helping the Burgundians secure promotion to Ligue 1 a year and a half later, demonstrating his capability at a young age.
Since stepping up to the top flight, the midfielder has established himself as a regular starter and a mainstay in the side. During the 2025-26 campaign, he started 32 of the 33 league matches in which he featured, contributing three goals and one assist. These statistics underline his importance to the team and his durability over a demanding season.
Contract situation and growing interest
The France Under-21 international, who has earned two caps at that level, remains under contract with Auxerre until 2029. His long-term commitment to the club and consistent performances have attracted attention from numerous clubs both in France and abroad in recent weeks.
The reported €30m valuation reflects Danois’s status as a key member of the Auxerre squad and his potential for further development. For a player who only made his senior debut two years ago, this represents a remarkable rise in stature. Crystal Palace’s interest represents the most concrete development in the transfer saga to date, though other suitors may yet emerge.
What happens next
With discussions now underway between the two clubs, the coming days will prove crucial in determining whether the move progresses. Auxerre may face a decision between retaining their academy graduate, who has become central to their midfield, or accepting a substantial transfer fee that could aid their broader squad planning.
For Palace, securing Danois would add significant depth to their midfield options as they continue to build a squad capable of competing in the Premier League. The outcome may depend on whether the London club can meet Auxerre’s valuation and whether the player is keen on a move to English football.