West Ham and Crystal Palace lead London race for Senegal striker Pape Moussa Fall

West Ham and Crystal Palace are reportedly leading the race for the acquisition of Senegalese striker Pape Moussa Fall ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 21-year-old, who is currently on loan at RAAL La Louvière from FC Metz has emerged as one of the most sought-after young forwards following a standout campaign in Belgium.

Fall has impressed with his blend of physical dominance, aerial strength, and improving finishing ability. His return of 13 goals this season has significantly boosted his reputation across several top leagues.

The forward’s performances have placed him firmly on the radar of multiple Premier League clubs, with West Ham United and Crystal Palace leading a London quartet of sides monitoring the situation closely. Brentford and Fulham are also understood to have added the striker to their recruitment lists as they assess attacking reinforcements ahead of the new season.

Metz, who are contracted to the striker until 2029, now face a key decision over his future. While the French club are expected to reintegrate him following their relegation to Ligue 2, internal discussions are said to be ongoing, with a potential valuation in the region of €6 million (£5.2m, $7m) reportedly under consideration.

The forward’s rapid development has also attracted interest beyond England. In France, Lille and Lorient have made enquiries about his availability, while in Germany, VfB Stuttgart and Mainz are monitoring his progress closely. Belgian giants Club Brugge and Anderlecht are also keeping tabs, and Turkish side Samsunspor have entered the conversation as part of a wider European scouting network.

Despite the widespread attention, sources suggest the race remains open, with no club yet in pole position. However, there is a growing expectation that Fall will secure a move this summer as he looks to step up to a more competitive environment and secure regular top-flight football.

For Crystal Palace, the interest comes amid ongoing uncertainty over the long-term future of Jean-Philippe Mateta, prompting the club to explore potential attacking alternatives. West Ham, meanwhile, are also keen to strengthen their forward line as they prepare for squad adjustments ahead of another demanding campaign.

Fall’s combination of height, physical presence, and developing technical ability makes him a classic high-upside target—one who could be moulded into a Premier League-level striker with the right environment and coaching.

As the transfer window approaches, Pape Moussa Fall’s next move is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing subplots of the summer, with London clubs expected to play a central role in the battle for his signature.