Crystal Palace close in on Krépin Diatta after winning race for free agent

Crystal Palace are reportedly leading the race to sign Krépin Diatta on a free transfer after making significant progress in negotiations with the former AS Monaco winger.

The Senegal international has been without a club since his contract with Monaco expired at the end of June, attracting interest from several European sides.

However, fresh reports suggest Palace have moved ahead of Bayer Leverkusen and are now closing in on securing the versatile 27-year-old.

Earlier this summer, Bayer Leverkusen appeared to be favourites to land Diatta after holding multiple meetings with the player's representatives.

Crystal Palace, however, have intensified their pursuit in recent weeks and are now reported to be in pole position.

According to reports, the Eagles have made firm advances that have significantly altered the race for the free agent's signature.

The move is now described as being close to completion.

One of the key breakthroughs in negotiations is believed to be Crystal Palace's willingness to meet Diatta's financial expectations.

A source close to the player claims the Senegal international is seeking a salary of around €2.5 million per year.

Palace are reportedly prepared to meet those demands, allowing discussions to reach an advanced stage.

The same source adds that Diatta is also attracted by the opportunity to play in the Premier League.

Diatta would offer Palace valuable versatility if the transfer is completed.

Although naturally a winger, the Senegal international is also capable of operating as a wing-back or right-back, giving head coach Pierre Sage several tactical options.

His experience includes five seasons with AS Monaco, where he established himself as a dependable squad player across multiple positions.

Signing an experienced international on a free transfer would represent a low-risk addition as Palace continue strengthening their squad ahead of the new campaign.

While no official announcement has been made, Crystal Palace appear to have placed themselves in a strong position to complete the transfer.

With financial terms reportedly close to being agreed and the player eager to test himself in England, the move could now be finalised in the coming days.

Crystal Palace will look to finalise personal terms and complete the signing in the coming days. If negotiations continue to progress as expected, Diatta could become one of the Eagles' latest additions before the start of the Premier League season.