Crystal Palace have now joined Aston Villa and Everton in the race to sign Dion Lopy from Stade Reims.
The 21-year-old has been a standout in Ligue 1 this season as Stade Reims sit 11th in France’s top-flight, as the likes of Will Still and Folarin Balogun also catch the eye.
Now, Lopy has started to receive attention for his outstanding efforts.
What’s the story?
Well – according to WIW Sport – Crystal Palace are keen to sign the Senegal international.
It comes after the Daily Mail claimed that Aston Villa and Everton are also monitoring Lopy.
The Stade Reims No.17 has made 28 appearances in all competitions this season – providing two assists.
Lopy acts as the glue for Stade Reims in the middle of the pitch, keeping things ticking along nicely in a defensive midfield role which helps the likes of Balogun and others in attack to thrive.
WIW Sport believe Salernitana and Rennes are also interested in the Senegalese maestro.
However, the story also states that it may take some convincing to lure Lopy away from Stade Reims, as he is enjoying himself in an environment where he receives plenty of playing time.
Crystal Palace & Aston Villa have advantage over Everton
The Eagles and the Villans actually have the edge over Everton in this transfer battle before the window even opens.
Crystal Palace and Aston Villa have already booked their place in the Premier League for next season, so they can begin to make recruitment plans as they know what their financial situation will look like next term.
Contrastingly, the Toffees could still be relegated as they sit 19th in the Premier League with four games remaining.
That does not give Everton much room to plan, as the Toffees are unable to assure their transfer targets that they will be playing in the Premier League next season, allowing Crystal Palace and Aston Villa to edge ahead.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Lopy could soon be arriving on these shores.
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