Crystal Palace are closing in on the signing of Angers striker Sidiki Cherif in a deal believed to be around £25million.
The Eagles are finalising a final fee with Angers, but personal terms between the 19-year-old and the Premier League club have been agreed.
Cherif looks set to become Angers’ most expensive ever player, eclipsing the £21.5m Lyon paid for Jeff-Reine Adelaide in 2019.
Palace have been after a new striker to provide competition for Jean-Philippe Mateta and improve their squad depth, following a disappointing run of form.
They are currently without a win in their last nine games in all competitions, including the embarrassing 2-1 defeat away at FA Cup minnows Macclesfield at the weekend.
Palace’s squad has been stretched thin, having already played 34 games this season across all competitions.
Sidiki Cherif Close To Crystal Palace Move
The arrival could be significant for boss Glasner, with evidence that owner Steve Parish is willing to back his manager despite his uncertain future.
Glasner looks increasingly likely to leave Selhurst Park at the end of the season, having turned down the opportunity to extend his contract.
He has been linked with the Manchester United position on a long-term basis, while he’s also the favourite to become the next Tottenham manager, with Thomas Frank under pressure.
Cherif may need time to adapt to the Premier League, and his age suggests he is identified as a player for the future.
He can play through the middle and out wide, having scored four goals in 17 Ligue 1 appearances this season.
Ten of his appearances have been as the main forward, and his style of play includes being direct and running at defenders.
He excels in transition and fast break situations, using his speed to exploit high defensive lines while he ranks in the 95th percentile for progressive carries, frequently driving the ball forward from midfield into the final third.
Doubts over Jean-Philippe Mateta Future
Reports have emerged that Palace’s main striker is wanted by Italian giants Juventus.
It’s suggested that the Old Lady have made contact with Palace chiefs to determine whether he could be available this month.
Cherif’s impending arrival could have an impact on the decision, but it’s more likely that Mateta will remain at Selhurst Park until the summer.
Reports add that Juventus would be willing to wait until the end of the season if a deal can’t be reached in January, but they know competition for his signature may intensify.
Manchester United are one of the clubs that have previously shown interest in the Frenchman.
