Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage may turn to his former club RC Lens to strengthen his squad this summer. The Premier League side are monitoring midfielder Mamadou Sangaré, though they face rival interest from Manchester United, and are also assessing defensive options from the French club.
Sangaré targeted amid United interest
The Mali international has emerged as a target for Selhurst Park, but any pursuit is complicated by Manchester United’s parallel interest in the Lens midfielder. Sangaré would represent a significant addition to Palace’s engine room, yet the competition from Old Trafford could drive up any potential fee or divert the player elsewhere.
Defensive options in France
Beyond the midfield, Palace are examining Lens defenders to bolster their backline. Whilst specific names remain unconfirmed, Ismaelo Ganiou and Samson Baidoo are understood to be of interest after both players enjoyed strong campaigns under Sage’s management in northern France.
The London club are also monitoring Toulouse centre-back Charlie Cresswell. However, they face concrete competition from Stade Rennais for the former England youth international’s signature.
Sage’s successful Lens tenure
Sage’s links to Lens explain the recruitment focus. He departed the club after securing a second-place finish in Ligue 1 and lifting the Coupe de France trophy. Those achievements brought him to South London, and he now appears keen to reunite with players who executed his tactical plans successfully.
No deals have been concluded, with multiple French clubs also active in the market for these targets.