Crystal Palace are on the verge of landing Evann Guessand from OGC Nice, with the club increasingly confident they have beaten off competition to land the in-form French striker.
The update comes via Chris Wheatley, who reports that Palace are in advanced talks to sign the 24-year-old, who was one of Ligue 1’s standout forwards in 2024/25.
Guessand registered 21 goal contributions in the French top flight last season — combining athleticism, pressing intelligence, and lethal finishing in the final third. Several clubs have tracked him this summer, but Palace now look set to win the race.
Newcastle Had Been in the Mix Earlier This Window
Back on July 21, Football Place revealed that Newcastle United had also shown interest in Guessand earlier in the window. Read that full report here.
However, the Magpies opted to pause negotiations after shifting attention to other striker targets — notably Benjamin Šeško and Hugo Ekitike.
That strategic delay opened the door for Palace to swoop in, and they’ve moved quickly to take control of the deal.
Why Palace Want Guessand
Guessand’s numbers speak for themselves. He’s a versatile forward who can lead the line or play in a two-man attack, offering flexibility for Oliver Glasner.
The forward’s pressing intensity and ability to hold up play also match Palace’s current tactical evolution under Glasner — who wants more athleticism and link-up play from his centre-forwards.
Stat Snapshot: Guessand’s 2024/25 Ligue 1 Season
| Stat (2024/25) | Evann Guessand |
|---|---|
| Appearances (Ligue 1) | 33 |
| Goals | 12 |
| Assists | 9 |
| Chances Created | 32 |
| Minutes Played | 2,572 |
Data reflects Ligue 1 performance: 12 goals, 9 assists, and 32 chance-creating actions in 33 matches for Nice in 2024/25
Analyst Verdict: Statement Signing for a Resetting Palace
Evann Guessand may not be a household name yet in the Premier League, but he’s been delivering like one in Ligue 1.
Palace have been crying out for a forward who can combine scoring with intelligent movement and work rate. Guessand brings all three — and his age profile makes him a smart investment with upside.
If the deal crosses the line as expected, this could be one of Palace’s most important signings of the window — and one that raises the floor of their frontline immediately.
Key Insights
- Crystal Palace are closing in on a deal for 24-year-old striker Evann Guessand
- The Frenchman recorded 21 goal contributions in Ligue 1 last season for Nice
- Palace are now in pole position after beating rival interest from multiple clubs
- Newcastle were previously interested, as reported by Football Place on July 21
- Oliver Glasner is keen to reshape his forward line ahead of the new season
What’s Next?
Crystal Palace are expected to finalise personal terms with Guessand in the coming days. While no fee has been confirmed, sources suggest the deal could rise above €25m with bonuses.
Nice have been preparing for his exit, and Palace are confident an agreement will be reached before the end of the month.
Is Guessand the striker Palace need to take a step forward — or should they be aiming higher in the Premier League market?
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