According to the Express, Crystal Palace have held talks with the representatives of Bamba Dieng as Patrick Vieira looks to strengthen his side.
What’s the story?
Well, Crystal Palace are said to be open to the idea of signing another striker, as it was a priority of Vieira’s for the summer anyway.
The Eagles face competition from West Ham, Brighton and Newcastle for the 21-year-old’s services, which should come as no surprise to them.
Dieng is enjoying a fantastic season in France, where he has scored four goals in just seven Ligue 1 starts.
Interestingly, the 4-cap Senegal international has been likened to his fellow countryman Sadio Mane, as well as Ivory Coast icon Didier Drogba.
Dieng is currently away with Mane and Crystal Palace midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate at the Africa Cup of Nations, where he has scored once in 51 minutes of action.
The Express believe Marseille are open to selling their No.12, and would listen to offers in the region of £10m.
Crystal Palace have Bamba Dieng advantage
West Ham have Europa League football to offer Dieng, whereas Newcastle have millions to throw at him, so how can the south Londoners win this race?
Well, the Express make an interesting revelation.
Back in 2003, Vieira co-founded an Academy at Diambars, a club based in his and Dieng’s homeland of Senegal.
Intriguingly, Dieng emerged from this Academy, as did Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Idrissa Gueye.
Therefore, it could be possible that Vieira and Dieng already know each other, or have the links to get in touch quite easily.
Even if they don’t, you would assume that Vieira has done his homework on the precocious striker, and that the youngster would be willing to work under the man who helped kickstart his career.
Keep an eye on this saga, as Dieng could well be playing in red and blue shortly.
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