Crystal Palace have identified Augsburg centre-back Chrislain Matsima as a potential target, with the club bracing for the possible departure of Maxence Lacroix. According to Standard Sport, while no formal club-to-club talks have taken place, Matsima is among several defensive options under consideration by the Eagles.
Matsima's Profile and Background
Matsima, 24, joined Augsburg permanently from Monaco in January 2025 after an initial loan spell. He was a key figure in Augsburg's defence last season before suffering a tendon tear that sidelined him for four months. The Frenchman is under contract until 2030. Notably, Matsima made one appearance for Thierry Henry's France side in the final of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, where he won a silver medal. That squad included current Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Other Defensive Targets
Toulouse centre-back Charlie Cresswell was also under consideration by Palace, but the 23-year-old now appears set to join Ligue 1 side Rennes. Palace have already completed the signing of versatile defender Oscar Mingueza on a free transfer, with the 27-year-old signing a four-year contract last week, becoming new manager Pierre Sage's first signing.
Lacroix Exit Fears
Palace are in the market for a centre-back due to growing interest in Maxence Lacroix. Chelsea have been linked with the France international, but the Blues have yet to submit a bid. Palace are holding out for a sizeable fee given the 26-year-old still has three years remaining on his contract.
Other Transfer News
It is expected to be a busy summer for Palace following Sage's arrival. Reports have suggested that the Eagles have offered Mateta a new four-year deal, but these reports are understood to be wide of the mark. Palace will also not look to sign Evann Guessand on a permanent deal after their option to buy the on-loan Ivorian international expired.
