Crystal Palace target Chrislain Matsima as defensive rebuild gathers pace

Crystal Palace have identified Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima as a key defensive target this summer as Pierre Sage looks to strengthen his back line ahead of the new Premier League season.

The Eagles are expected to recruit another centre-back amid uncertainty surrounding Maxence Lacroix's future, and Matsima has emerged as one of the club's leading options after an impressive campaign in the Bundesliga.

However, Palace could face competition for the 24-year-old, with Bayern Munich also monitoring his progress.

According to journalist Alex Crook, Crystal Palace are closely tracking Matsima as they prepare for a crucial summer in the transfer market.

The former France Under-21 captain enjoyed an excellent season with Augsburg, helping the German club finish ninth in the Bundesliga while establishing himself as one of the division's most promising young defenders.

Standing at 6ft 3in, Matsima impressed with both his physical presence and athleticism, winning 74 per cent of his aerial duels and 56 per cent of his ground duels across his league appearances.

He also contributed a goal and an assist while playing an important role in Augsburg's defensive performances.

Matsima's profile makes him an attractive option for Sage.

Comfortable defending high up the pitch and possessing the pace to recover quickly, the Frenchman appears well suited to the aggressive style Palace are expected to adopt under their new head coach.

His leadership qualities have also drawn praise after captaining France at Under-21 level, while his performances earned him the Bundesliga's Rookie of the Month award on two occasions during his breakthrough campaign.

Should Lacroix leave Selhurst Park this summer, Matsima would offer a natural replacement with the potential to develop further in the Premier League.

Despite their interest, Crystal Palace are unlikely to have a clear run at the defender.

Bayern Munich are understood to be keeping a close eye on Matsima's development, meaning Palace could face stronger competition if negotiations drag on.

The South London club have already experienced frustration in previous transfer windows after missing out on priority targets, and securing an early agreement could prove vital if they are to beat Europe's biggest clubs to one of the Bundesliga's standout young defenders.

Crystal Palace are expected to continue assessing Matsima before deciding whether to submit a formal offer. With Bayern Munich also tracking the defender and uncertainty surrounding Lacroix's future, the Eagles may need to move quickly if they want to secure one of their priority defensive targets before the market becomes more competitive.

Would Chrislain Matsima be the ideal replacement if Maxence Lacroix leaves Crystal Palace this summer?