Crystal Palace target Malian forward Lassine Sinayoko

Crystal Palace have set their sights on securing the services of Mali international Lassine Sinayoko as the team prepare for a potential shake-up in attack.

The Eagles are bracing for the expected departure of Jean-Philippe Mateta, who is strongly linked with a move to AC Milan. In anticipation, Palace have moved swiftly to identify a suitable replacement. With Sinayoko, who plies his trade for AJ Auxerre emerging as a priority target.

The Malian striker has been one of the standout performers in Ligue 1 this season, playing a pivotal role for Auxerre with his pace, physicality, and clinical finishing. With 9 goals and 4 assists in 30 league appearances, the 24-year-old has proven himself as a reliable attacking outlet capable of influencing matches consistently.

Interest in Sinayoko is not new. He was close to securing a move to RC Lens last summer, but the transfer ultimately fell through, allowing him to continue his development at Auxerre. Now, with another strong campaign under his belt, suitors are lining up once again.

French side AS Saint-Étienne are also monitoring his situation closely ahead of the upcoming transfer window. However, Crystal Palace’s entry into the race could significantly shift the balance, given the appeal of the Premier League and the club’s clear need for reinforcements in attack.

Valued at around €8 million, Sinayoko represents a relatively affordable option in a market where proven forwards often command far higher fees. For Palace, the deal aligns with a strategy of acquiring emerging talents with room for growth while maintaining financial prudence.

From a tactical standpoint, Sinayoko’s versatility and work rate make him an attractive fit for Palace’s attacking system. His ability to stretch defenses, press from the front, and contribute both goals and assists could help fill the void left by Mateta, should his departure materialize.

As the summer transfer window approaches, the battle for Lassine Sinayoko is heating up. With interest growing across Europe, Crystal Palace will be hoping to act decisively to secure the Malian forward—before competition intensifies further.