Lecce ready to sell Crystal Palace target in January

Crystal Palace have started the season in a mixed fashion after losing key players during the summer transfer window.

Pierre Sage has come under pressure of his own after failing to produce results since arriving in the summer to replace Oliver Glasner.

Despite the results, fans have called out Sporting Director Matt Hobbs as well over lack of transfer activity during the summer window.

Matt Hobbs is facing growing scrutiny as the club looks at its problems following a poor start to the season under Pierre Sage.

Despite failing to sign Lecce centre back, Tiago Gabriel, Crystal Palace could return for Tiago Gabriel in January. Lecce is reportedly preparing to sell the young centre back amid interest from the Premier League.

Football Insider reports that Everton are also interested in the defender, who has established himself as a key player for the Serie A club since joining from Estrela Amadora in January 2025.

The 21-year-old has made nearly 50 appearances for the Italian club, scoring four goals and providing one assist.

Crystal Palace face Everton competition for Tiago Gabriel

Palace were among the clubs interested in Gabriel during the summer transfer window, but a move never materialised.

Tiago Gabriel has made a strong start to the current campaign, starting six league matches and scoring two goals and providing one assist. His performances have attracted attention from clubs across Europe with Palace and Everton, high on the list.

With Lecce reportedly open to a sale when the January window opens, his future could become a major talking point in the coming months.

Tiago Gabriel focused on Lecce amid transfer links

Gabriel was asked about the possibility of leaving Lecce during the summer, when Crystal Palace were among the clubs linked with him. The defender made it clear that he was not looking too far ahead.

“I never think about the future. Players now think day by day, and being at Lecce, I was focused solely on Lecce. Transfers don’t just depend on players, but on many other factors. We have a duty to give our best to the team we’re in,” Gabriel told La Gazetta dello Sport.

Palace could now have another opportunity to pursue Gabriel. However, with Everton and major clubs in Italy also interested, any potential move remains uncertain.