Crystal Palace interest in Antoine Mendy has emerged as Pierre Sage looks to strengthen his defence following Maxence Lacroix’s move to Chelsea. Nice are reportedly prepared to sell the Senegal international for at least €15million.
Palace are not alone in tracking the 22-year-old. Fiorentina and Udinese are also interested, although reports from France suggest the Eagles are among the clubs keeping the closest watch on his situation.
Get French Football News report, citing Foot Mercato, that Palace are monitoring Mendy, with Nice open to a departure if their valuation is met.
Crystal Palace interest in Antoine Mendy makes sense after Lacroix exit
Mendy would arrive at Selhurst Park with useful experience despite his age.
The defender made 40 appearances for Nice last season and has also broken into the Senegal senior squad. He is capable of operating centrally or on the right of a back three, which could suit Sage’s defensive system.
Palace have already been exploring several ways of replacing Lacroix. ReadCrystalPalace analysed this week why a free transfer could help solve the club’s defensive problem, with squad depth becoming increasingly important ahead of another season involving European football.
Mendy would represent a different type of addition. At 22, Palace would be buying a player with potential resale value rather than simply adding short-term experience.
The reported €15m asking price is also considerably below the £52m received for Lacroix, leaving Palace with room to strengthen elsewhere even if they decide to move for the Nice defender.
No formal Palace bid has been reported yet, so negotiations should not be presented as advanced.
However, Crystal Palace interest in Antoine Mendy gives Sage another credible option as the club continue rebuilding their defence before the Premier League campaign begins.
