Crystal Palace now make ambitious move to sign “rapid” £40m star
Crystal Palace have stepped up their summer transfer plans by making an ambitious move to sign one of Europe’s most exciting young defenders – a £40 million-rated star who is also being pursued by some of the Premier League’s elite clubs, according to reports.
Palace Looking to Reinforce Defence as Guehi Departure Looms
The South London club are entering a pivotal summer, with their transfer strategy beginning to take shape amid the lingering uncertainty surrounding their potential participation in next season’s UEFA Europa League. After a successful campaign under Oliver Glasner that included an FA Cup triumph over Manchester City, Palace are now aiming to build on that momentum—but they may have to do so without their talismanic captain.
Marc Guehi, a cornerstone of Palace’s defence and a key figure in their recent cup success, could be on the move in the coming weeks. The Eagles resisted a significant £70 million bid from Tottenham Hotspur during the January window, a decision that proved worthwhile as Guehi’s leadership and composure played a vital role in securing silverware. However, with just one year left on his contract and with Newcastle United now reportedly closing in on a deal, the club may finally have to part ways with the England international.
Europa League Uncertainty Looms Large
In theory, Selhurst Park should be an enticing destination for prospective signings this summer. The promise of Europa League football adds a layer of appeal for any player seeking continental competition. However, questions remain over Palace’s eligibility to compete in the tournament due to UEFA regulations on multi-club ownership—a hurdle that could see them disqualified despite earning qualification on sporting merit. Still, the club is reportedly determined to meet UEFA’s requirements in order to secure their place in Europe.
That European ambition is already being reflected in the transfer market. According to a report from the Daily Mail, Crystal Palace have officially made an enquiry for Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande, a rising defensive talent who has been attracting attention from top clubs across the continent. The 21-year-old Ivorian centre-back has been identified as a potential long-term replacement for Guehi and could become the next defensive lynchpin at Selhurst Park.
Diomande: A Target with Sky-High Potential
Palace’s interest in Diomande is both bold and forward-thinking. The young defender, valued at around £40 million, is not only on the radar of the Eagles but also admired by Champions League-bound clubs such as Chelsea and Newcastle United. That level of competition underscores the scale of Palace’s ambition—and the difficulty of pulling off such a move.
Football analyst Zach Lowy has previously praised Diomande’s qualities, labelling him “physically imposing” and “rapid,” while suggesting he possesses all the attributes necessary to become one of the best centre-backs in world football. His combination of athleticism, defensive intelligence, and technical skill has made him a standout performer in Portugal’s Primeira Liga over the past season.
What sets Diomande apart is his ability to contribute on both ends of the pitch. Not only is he a commanding presence in the back line, but he also excels in bringing the ball out of defence and initiating attacks. His composure under pressure and knack for progressive passing would fit well within Glasner’s system, which relies heavily on defenders being comfortable in possession.
Palace Must Fend Off Premier League Rivals
Bringing Diomande to Selhurst Park would be seen as a major coup for Crystal Palace. However, they face an uphill battle to land his signature. Both Chelsea and Newcastle have Champions League football to offer—an undeniable draw for a player of his calibre—and their financial resources could easily dwarf Palace’s offer.
Nevertheless, if Palace can convince UEFA to grant them entry into the Europa League, they may yet have a compelling pitch. The opportunity to play regular football, serve as a key part of an ambitious project under Glasner, and be central to a club on the rise could appeal to Diomande—especially if the likes of Chelsea or Newcastle decide to pursue alternative targets.
A Defining Summer Ahead
This summer could mark a turning point for Crystal Palace. With Marc Guehi likely departing and uncertainty over their European status, the club must act swiftly and decisively to ensure they maintain upward momentum. Targeting a player like Ousmane Diomande signals their intent to not only replace a departing star but to upgrade and push forward.
Should they manage to win the battle for his signature, it would be a real statement of ambition—and perhaps the beginning of a new, exciting chapter at Selhurst Park.