Crystal Palace agree terms with Raphaël Le Guen amid Fulham interest

Crystal Palace have moved into pole position to sign Stade Brestois defender Raphaël Le Guen after agreeing personal terms with the highly-rated teenager, leaving Fulham trailing in the race.

The Eagles are looking to strengthen their defence ahead of the new season following the expected departure of Maxence Lacroix to Chelsea.

According to L'Equipe, Crystal Palace have taken significant steps in recent days to secure Le Guen's signature.

The Premier League side have already reached an agreement on personal terms with the 19-year-old centre-back and are now preparing to open formal negotiations with Brest.

Palace view the France youth international as a leading candidate to replace Lacroix.

Fulham remain admirers of Le Guen but have yet to make the same level of progress as their Premier League rivals.

The Cottagers have been monitoring the defender's development, although Crystal Palace are now firmly ahead after moving discussions forward with the player.

Unless Fulham accelerate their efforts, the Eagles appear well placed to complete the transfer.

Crystal Palace are expected to submit an official bid within the next few days.

Brest are reportedly open to selling the academy graduate if they receive what has been described as a substantial offer, although no asking price has been disclosed.

Le Guen only signed a new contract with the Ligue 1 club until 2029 earlier this year, strengthening Brest's negotiating position.

Le Guen made his senior debut for Brest in August 2025 and has featured only six times for the first team.

Despite his limited experience, the teenager has already attracted attention from several Premier League clubs thanks to his potential and performances within the French club's academy.

Transfermarkt currently values the defender at €800,000, but Brest are expected to demand a considerably higher fee to sanction his departure.

Crystal Palace are expected to submit a formal offer for Raphaël Le Guen in the coming days after agreeing personal terms. Fulham remain interested but will need to move quickly if they are to challenge the Eagles for the defender's signature.