Crystal Palace are among a growing list of Premier League clubs monitoring Auxerre forward Lassine Sinayoko, with the Eagles potentially holding a significant advantage following the recent appointment of Pierre Sage as manager.
The Mali international has attracted considerable interest after an impressive campaign in Ligue 1, where he emerged as one of Auxerre’s standout performers despite the club spending much of the season looking over their shoulder in the battle to avoid relegation.
Auxerre ultimately secured their top-flight status comfortably, finishing two places above the drop zone, and Sinayoko played a major role in ensuring the club remained clear of danger. The 26-year-old scored 12 league goals and contributed four assists across 32 starts, establishing himself as one of the division’s most effective attacking players outside the traditional heavyweights.
His performances have not gone unnoticed.
Reports in France suggest Crystal Palace, Everton, Fulham and Leeds United are all closely tracking the forward ahead of a potential move this summer. Interest from England has been building for several weeks, with earlier reports claiming that four Premier League clubs were already “in talks” regarding a possible transfer, although their identities were not initially disclosed.
Those clubs have now reportedly been identified, with Palace joining an increasingly competitive race for the versatile attacker.
Sinayoko’s ability to operate across the front line has added to his appeal. While naturally a central striker, he is equally comfortable playing on either wing, giving managers valuable tactical flexibility. That versatility is understood to be one of the key reasons several Premier League sides view him as an attractive option during the current transfer window.
The player’s contract situation has only intensified interest. Sinayoko has entered the final year of his deal with Auxerre, meaning the French club could be open to cashing in rather than risk losing him for a reduced fee in the future.
Among the clubs involved, Crystal Palace may have a particularly strong hand to play.
The arrival of Pierre Sage at Selhurst Park could prove crucial in the battle for the striker’s signature. According to reports, the appointment of the French coach “could be the deciding factor” in convincing Sinayoko to choose South London over rival destinations.
Sage is highly familiar with Ligue 1 and the players operating within it, while Sinayoko is likely to view the opportunity to work under a fellow French-speaking manager as an attractive proposition. Palace’s recent success and involvement in European competition could also strengthen their position.
However, the Eagles are far from alone in their pursuit.
Leeds United remain keen to add further attacking depth despite enjoying a productive season in front of goal, while Everton continue to search for additional firepower after inconsistencies in attack. Fulham, meanwhile, are assessing options following changes to their forward line and view Sinayoko as a player capable of making an immediate impact.
German clubs are also believed to be monitoring the situation and could yet enter the race, creating further competition for one of Ligue 1’s most sought-after forwards.
Having spent his entire senior career with Auxerre, Sinayoko now faces a major decision. After nine years at the club, the forward appears closer than ever to taking the next step in his career, with the Premier League emerging as a very realistic destination.
Whether Crystal Palace can use the Pierre Sage connection to their advantage remains to be seen, but they are firmly in the running for one of France’s most intriguing attacking talents.
