Crystal Palace are eyeing a summer move to sign Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima to bolster their defence, according to talkSPORT.
The Eagles are set to compete in the Europa League after their victory in the Conference League last season, but have new manager Pierre Sage in the hot seat after Oliver Glasner departed at the end of his contract.
Sage is keen to refresh the squad and shape it in his own image, and the defence has emerged as a position that he is keen to strengthen, amid concerns over the long-term future of Maxence Lacroix.
Crystal Palace Eyeing Matsima Deal
Selhurst Park (Crystal Palace FC)
Matsima, who has been described as 'exceptional', has been a standout performer for Bundesliga side Augsburg, and has attracted the attention of Palace with his level and potential ability.
The 24-year-old was a regular starter under Thierry Henry for the French Olympics team in 2022, as they reached the final and earned a silver medal, and he has continued to develop in recent years.
Having come through the ranks at Monaco, Matsima has spent the last two seasons with Augsburg, but Palace are now ready to test the waters by making an offer to bring him to the Premier League.
Palace lost Marc Guehi in the January transfer window, and while Jaydee Canvot was brought in last year as a pre-planned replacement, there is now strong interest in Lacroix from Chelsea in particular, which has sparked concerns he could be on the move.
Matsima is seen as a replacement for the France international, and Sage has identified him as someone who could slot straight into the side and help them in their quest to be successful in the Europa League, as well as the Premier League.
Fees correct prior to summer 2026
All 10 found — excellent!
Crystal Palace Set for Big Summer
Oscar Mingueza
Palace so far have only completed one deal to strengthen their squad, with Oscar Mingueza arriving on a free transfer from Celta Vigo, but they know they need much more to be competitive again.
Jean-Philippe Mateta has been tipped to leave Selhurst Park amid interest from Serie A, while Adam Wharton remains heavily linked with a move away despite the club's ambitions to keep him for at least another season.
The arrival of Matsima would be a step in the right direction, but if Lacroix and the other two stars are to leave, Steve Parish will need to pull a rabbit out of his hat with the replacements to ensure their level from recent seasons is maintained at the very least.
Pierre Sage Related
Crystal Palace Ready to Hijack Leeds Move To Sign 'Exciting' Championship Star
Crystal Palace are looking to hijack Leeds United's move for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles