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Premier League clubs Crystal Palace and Burnley are both in pursuit of highly-rated RC Lens midfielder Andy Diouf, but it appears the 22-year-old Frenchman is leaning towards a move to Selhurst Park, even though Burnley have already struck a deal with his current club.
According to a report from L’Équipe, Crystal Palace have identified Diouf as a top midfield target in this summer’s transfer window. The Eagles are in the market for young, dynamic midfielders to bolster their squad, particularly in light of ongoing uncertainty around the long-term future of **Adam Wharton**. While Wharton is expected to stay at Palace for now, the club is planning ahead for potential exits and squad evolution.
Burnley have acted swiftly, reaching a reported agreement with Lens for €20 million, but Diouf himself is said to be more interested in a switch to South London, where he could continue his development under Oliver Glasner in a more stable Premier League setting. However, Palace have yet to finalise terms with Lens, leaving the door open for late twists in the saga.
Diouf’s Rapid Rise
Andy Diouf has quickly built a reputation as one of Ligue 1’s brightest young midfielders. After rising through the youth ranks at several French academies—including Paris Saint-Germain and Stade Rennais—he gained professional experience with FC Basel before sealing a move to RC Lens in 2023.
Since joining Lens, Diouf has become a regular fixture in the first team, making over 50 appearances and contributing two goals and two assists. His performances in domestic competition and during the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he helped France win the silver medal, have significantly raised his profile.
Versatility and Premier League Readiness
Diouf’s appeal lies in his versatility and maturity on the pitch. Capable of operating as a deep-lying playmaker, a box-to-box engine, or a more advanced midfielder, he fits the mold of a modern Premier League player. Palace see him as an ideal addition to their evolving midfield core and a strong fit for Glasner’s energetic, pressing system.
While Burnley have already laid the groundwork financially, the player’s preference could tip the scales. If Palace want to secure his signature, they’ll need to act fast to avoid losing out despite the advantage of Diouf’s personal inclination.
Andy Diouf’s future remains uncertain for now, but Crystal Palace appear to be in the driving seat** if they can strike a deal with RC Lens quickly. With competition mounting and the player reportedly favouring a London move, this could become one of the defining early battles of the summer transfer window.
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