Crystal Palace are leading the race to sign OGC Nice striker Evann Guessand, Sporting News understands.
The 24-year-old forward, who registered an impressive 21 goal contributions in Ligue 1 last season, has emerged as one of the most sought-after attacking players in Europe this summer.
Sources close to the deal have confirmed that Palace are currently in advanced talks, with club officials confident of securing an agreement ahead of their rivals.
A powerful and versatile forward capable of playing across the front line, he has attracted interest from clubs in Germany, Spain and Turkey.
Sporting News has been told that personal terms have already been discussed with the player’s representatives, and there is growing optimism at Selhurst Park that a deal can be concluded in the coming weeks.
Palace have so far only signed Walter Benitez on a free transfer and Borna Sosa from Dutch side Ajax.
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The Eagles, under manager Oliver Glasner, are keen to add more firepower to their attack ahead of the new Premier League season.
With speculation continuing around the future of Eberechi Eze, reinforcements are a priority.
Meanwhile, developments at Selhurst Park could have a direct impact on Arsenal, who are ramping up their pursuit of Eze.
The Gunners are expected to make a concrete move once Viktor Gyokeres completes his switch from Sporting CP.
Gyokeres will finalise his move to Arsenal over the weekend after a £55.1m (€63.5m) guaranteed fee, plus £8.7m (€10m) in add-ons deal was agreed.
Sources suggest a player could be included in any potential agreement with Palace, as Arsenal look to structure a deal for Eze that reaches their £68million transfer valuation.
Eze, a boyhood Arsenal fan, is keen on joining Mikel Arteta’s side this summer, as the Spaniard looks to bolster his frontline with added creativity and goal threat.
