Evann Guessand could be set for a swift departure from Aston Villa just months after arriving at the club, with Crystal Palace closing in on a loan move for the Ivory Coast international.
According to Foot Mercato, Aston Villa and Crystal Palace have reached an agreement in principle over a loan deal that includes an option to buy.
The proposed move would see Guessand remain in the Premier League, despite an unsettled first season in Birmingham.
The 24-year-old joined Villa last August from OGC Nice following an impressive campaign in Ligue 1, where he scored 12 goals and provided nine assists in 33 league appearances.
Those performances had raised expectations ahead of his move to England, but the forward has struggled to reproduce that form since his arrival.
Guessand’s difficulties have been reflected in his statistics this season. He has scored twice in the Europa League but has yet to find the net in the Premier League, despite making 13 appearances.
His lack of goals in domestic competition has contributed to growing uncertainty over his role in Unai Emery’s squad.
That uncertainty has been compounded by a noticeable reduction in playing time since November. Guessand has gradually fallen down the pecking order, suggesting he may no longer be central to Villa’s immediate plans.
As a result, a temporary move away from the club is now being considered as a solution for both player and club.
A switch to Crystal Palace is seen as an opportunity for Guessand to revive his career and regain regular minutes. The former FC Nantes and Lausanne-Sport player would be hoping that a fresh environment could help restore his confidence after a challenging period at Villa Park.
Negotiations between the two clubs are expected to continue in the coming hours as they work to complete the transfer before the close of the window. While a broad agreement has already been reached, the remaining discussions are believed to centre on the financial details of the deal.
Signed by Aston Villa for €30m, Guessand’s future now appears increasingly uncertain. With time running short, all sides are aiming to reach a conclusion quickly, potentially bringing an early end to his brief stay in Birmingham.
