Crystal Palace prepare improved Chrislain Matsima bid after Augsburg reject €20m offer

Crystal Palace are expected to return with an improved offer for Chrislain Matsima after Augsburg rejected their opening €20 million bid for the highly-rated defender.

The Eagles have identified Matsima as their priority replacement for Maxence Lacroix, who is closing in on a move to Chelsea, and negotiations are expected to continue throughout the day.

Palace are already believed to have reached an agreement with the French centre-back over personal terms.

Crystal Palace's first offer for Matsima was immediately turned down by Augsburg, who believe the proposal falls short of the defender's market value.

The Bundesliga club are now waiting for Palace to submit an improved bid as talks between the two clubs continue.

Matsima remains under contract until 2030, leaving Augsburg in a strong negotiating position.

Pierre Sage has made strengthening his defence a priority following the imminent departure of Maxence Lacroix.

Matsima has emerged as Palace's preferred option ahead of several other centre-back targets, with the club moving quickly to secure an agreement with the player.

Reports suggest the 24-year-old is eager to make the move to the Premier League this summer.

While Augsburg have not publicly named their asking price, the rejected €20 million offer is believed to be below the club's valuation.

The German side signed Matsima permanently from Monaco last summer after a successful loan spell and are now in line to make a substantial profit.

Monaco also retain a 15 per cent sell-on clause, giving Augsburg further incentive to negotiate a higher transfer fee.

Crystal Palace have also monitored Chibuike Nwaiwu, although Matsima remains the clear priority.

Nwaiwu is now expected to join Fulham, leaving Palace focused on reaching an agreement with Augsburg.

The Eagles are well funded following the expected sale of Maxence Lacroix, a factor Augsburg are fully aware of during negotiations.

Crystal Palace are expected to return with a second bid as they attempt to finalise a deal for Chrislain Matsima. Augsburg remain open to negotiations but are determined to secure a fee that reflects the defender's value before approving a transfer.