Crystal Palace line up move for AC Milan midfielder Youssouf Fofana

Crystal Palace have identified AC Milan midfielder Youssouf Fofana as a leading target to strengthen their midfield before the new season, according to reports in Italy.

La Gazzetta dello Sport says Palace have placed the France international, who is of Malian origin, among their main priorities for the summer transfer window as they look to add greater physical presence and solidity in the centre of the pitch.

The Premier League club are seeking reinforcements following the departure of Daichi Kamada and a series of injury problems for Cheick Doucoure, which have undermined the team over recent campaigns. Ongoing uncertainty over the future of Adam Wharton is also understood to be pushing the club’s hierarchy to accelerate their plans for a new central midfielder.

Fofana valued at €23m but Milan open to talks

Fofana, 27, has been capped 25 times by France and is viewed as a midfielder who combines work-rate with ball-winning ability and forward drive. His capacity to break up play and carry the ball through midfield is seen as particularly attractive to Palace’s recruitment team.

He is under contract with AC Milan until 30 June 2028 and is currently valued at around €23m. However, the Serie A club are thought to be prepared to discuss a transfer for a fee in the region of €15m to €20m, creating scope for negotiations with interested clubs.

Palace, who finished last season strongly under head coach Pierre Sage, are keen to capitalise on that momentum by reinforcing key areas of the squad, with central midfield viewed as a priority zone.

Lens midfielder Sangare monitored as back-up option

Should a move for Fofana fail to materialise, Crystal Palace are already exploring an alternative. The club are also tracking Mamadou Sangare, the RC Lens midfielder.

Sangare is well known to Sage, who has previously worked with the player in France, and that existing relationship is considered a significant advantage if Palace choose to step up their interest.

The Lens player is regarded at Selhurst Park as a credible option who could quickly move up the shortlist, depending on how talks with AC Milan develop over the coming weeks.

For now, Fofana remains the primary focus as Palace look to add depth and resilience to a midfield department reshaped by departures, injuries and possible further changes before the new campaign begins.