Benin’s Joris Ahlinvi Courted by QPR and Crystal Palace as Contract Nears Expiry
Promising Beninese striker Joris Ahlinvi is drawing serious attention from English clubs as his contract with Montpellier HSC approaches its end. The 20-year-old, who featured in 11 matches and scored three goals for Montpellier’s reserve side (CFA) last season, is now being tracked by Queens Park Rangers and Crystal Palace, according to L’Équipe.
Ahlinvi has been in advanced talks with QPR, who are looking to strengthen their squad following their relegation to the English Championship. The London club is reportedly waiting for a final green light from sporting director Les Ferdinand to complete the signing.
However, the situation has taken a new turn as Crystal Palace, who remain in the Premier League, have entered the race and made their intentions clear. Palace have already contacted the player’s representatives and have tabled a three-year contract offer worth €20,000 per season—a modest proposal, but one that signals their belief in Ahlinvi’s long-term potential.
Trained at Montpellier, Ahlinvi is seen as a player with raw talent and strong physical attributes, though still needing development time to reach top-tier consistency. His international ties to Benin and his youth performances in France make him an intriguing low-risk signing for clubs aiming to invest in young talent.
With both clubs keen to finalise their squads before the start of the season, a decision from Ahlinvi is expected soon. Whether he chooses the steady playing time potentially available in the Championship or the higher-profile challenge of the Premier League could define the next crucial step in his budding career.
