Crystal Palace have made contact to sign Lens midfielder Andy Diouf for the summer transfer window as the Eagles are now on red alert for clubs coming in for Adam Wharton, according to Alan Nixon.
If Wharton was to head through the exit door during the summer transfer window, it would be a crucial blow for Oliver Glasner as he prepares for his side to be competing in Europe next season. Palace qualified for the Europa League after winning the FA Cup, and they'll be desperate to keep hold of their key stars heading into the 2025/2026 campaign.
Adding a new midfielder will likely be a major priority if the Eagles do lose Wharton, but they managed to cope with selling a star player last season. Michael Olise was allowed to join Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich last summer, but Palace enjoyed an impressive season, lifting a trophy at Wembley.
He could cost £20m
Andy Diouf in action for France's under-21 side
According to a report from journalist Nixon, Palace have made contact over a potential move to sign Lens midfielder Diouf after the Eagles have been tracking him for 'months'. Lens are likely to demand in the region of £20m or more, and Palace have those kind of funds earmarked for a midfield addition.
Andy Diouf Lens Statistics 2024/25
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Diouf, described as 'incredible' by talent scout Jacek Kulig, could be the ideal replacement for Wharton if the Eagles were to lose the England international. At 22 years old, Diouf is already making an impact at senior level, while he is also yet to reach his full potential.
The young midfielder is currently at the U21 European Championships with France, and Palace might have to act fast in case Diouf flourishes during the tournament and other clubs enter the race. Glasner's side have already made their move, so it will be interesting to see whether they can get a deal done in the coming weeks.
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All statistics courtesy of WhoScored - correct as of 22/06/2025.