Crystal Palace continue to push forward in their bid to sign highly rated Angers forward Sidiki Cherif, with reports suggesting the club have now put together a package worth more than £13 million as the transfer window edges towards its conclusion.
The Eagles have endured a difficult few months, with form dipping since October, several key players departing and Oliver Glasner confirming he will step down at the end of the season, despite lifting the FA Cup last May. Even so, Palace remain active in the market, and the Guinea-born teenager has emerged as a leading target as they look to strengthen their attacking options.
Palace pressing on with Cherif talks
According to Sky Sports journalists Rob Dorsett and James Savundra, Palace are still working on a deal for the 19-year-old Angers prospect. The South London club recently proposed an initial loan move that would include a conditional obligation to buy. While that structure would not automatically guarantee Cherif’s presence next season, it reflects Palace’s determination to bring him to Selhurst Park. Personal terms with the youngster are already understood to be in place.
The suggested package involves a loan fee of around £2.6 million, followed by a permanent transfer worth approximately £10.5 million if conditions are met. However, Angers are holding out for a higher overall figure, with their preferred valuation sitting closer to £17.4 million. That represents a reduction on their earlier demands but still exceeds Palace’s latest offer.
Palace’s interest in Cherif is not believed to be tied to Jean-Philippe Mateta’s future. The French striker continues to attract attention, including reported interest from Aston Villa, where he is said to have agreed personal terms. Instead, Cherif is viewed as both a long-term investment and a player capable of contributing immediately at Premier League level.
Palace’s track record could influence decision
Crystal Palace’s recent history of nurturing young talent may play a significant role in persuading Cherif to make the move. Players such as Adam Wharton, Eberechi Eze, Marc Guehi and Michael Olise all flourished at Selhurst Park before taking the next step in their careers.
Wharton earned a place in England’s Euro 2024 squad just months after joining the club, while Guehi, Eze and Olise have since secured high-profile transfers to Manchester City, Arsenal and Bayern Munich. That pathway offers a compelling example of how Palace can accelerate development.
For Cherif, a successful spell in South London could allow him to establish himself in the Premier League while putting himself on the radar of Europe’s elite. Palace believe that combination of opportunity and exposure makes them an attractive destination as negotiations continue.