Raphael Le Guen to Crystal Palace has moved closer after the Eagles agreed personal terms with the Brest centre-back.
Palace are expected to submit an opening offer for the 19-year-old as Maxence Lacroix prepares to complete his move to Chelsea.
L’Équipe reports that Palace have reached a contractual agreement with Le Guen following talks over a move to Selhurst Park.
Brest have not yet agreed to sell their academy graduate. The Ligue 1 club will reportedly demand an important offer before allowing him to leave, while Fulham have also shown interest.
Le Guen remains under contract until June 2029. His long-term agreement gives Brest a strong negotiating position despite Palace advancing discussions with the player.
Raphael Le Guen to Crystal Palace moves closer
The defender made only six senior appearances during his breakthrough campaign. He made his professional debut against Lens before earning his first start during a defeat against Paris FC.
Le Guen then started Brest’s final matches against leading Ligue 1 opposition, including Paris Saint-Germain and Strasbourg. His performances were enough to attract Palace despite his limited senior experience.
ReadCrystalPalace previously reported that Palace had identified Le Guen as a possible Lacroix replacement. The Eagles have now progressed from monitoring the teenager to agreeing personal terms.
Lacroix is expected to join Chelsea after the clubs agreed a deal worth around £51million. His departure gives Pierre Sage both the need and financial room to reshape his defensive options.
Palace are also working on other centre-back targets, so Le Guen may initially be viewed as a long-term addition rather than an immediate guaranteed starter.
Raphael Le Guen to Crystal Palace now depends on negotiations with Brest. Agreement on personal terms represents meaningful progress, but Palace must submit an offer capable of convincing the French club to sell.
