Crystal Palace are interested in signing midfielder Youssouf Fofana this summer as they look to bolster their options in the centre of the park.
However, according to Gianluca DiMarzio, Juventus have entered the race for the AC Milan star, giving the Eagles competition for his signature.
Palace could use another midfielder with Cheick Doucoure struggling to stay fit for the past two seasons after a brilliant start to life in South London.
Jefferson Lerma and Daichi Kamada are shoo-ins, but there is still uncertainty regarding Adam Wharton’s future, forcing the Conference League champions to consider midfield reinforcement.
The Eagles turned to the 27-year-old France international who is reportedly surplus to demands at his club.
Fofana can operate as a box-to-box midfielder or as a more conservative anchorman. He is physically robust and has the energy to thrive in English football.
Unfortunately for Palace, they will have to be looking over their shoulders for the two-time UEFA Champions League winners from Italy. They are considering a swap deal.
Palace need to move decisively
Palace cannot afford to let this situation drag on. If Fofana is genuinely their preferred target, they need to move decisively before Juventus or another interested club does.
The Eagles have developed a frustrating habit of being sluggish in the transfer market, often allowing opportunities to drift away while they deliberate.
It was one of the issues that reportedly frustrated Oliver Glasner during his time at Selhurst Park, and Palace risk falling into the same trap with new boss Pierre Sage.
A manager can only work with the squad he is given, and Palace desperately need midfield depth.
They could also use additions in defence following the departure of Maxence Lacroix. It looked like they would sign Axel Disasi, but those links have gone cold.
So have the links with Raphael Le Guen. The South London club desperately needs to get active.