Crystal Palace Nears £47m Signing Ousmane Diomande, Advances Talks for Marc Guehi Swap

Crystal Palace is actively pursuing several key signings this summer to strengthen their squad amid uncertainty over their Europa League participation. They are close to finalizing a €55 million deal for Sporting CP's centre-back Ousmane Diomande, who is attracted by the prospect of playing in the Premier League and a lucrative contract at Selhurst Park. Liverpool is in active talks with Palace for Marc Guehi, a central defender they see as vital to partner Virgil van Dijk, especially after departures in their defense, and a potential swap deal involving Liverpool's winger Ben Doak is also under consideration. Palace scouts have tracked Doak's progress, but Liverpool's £30 million valuation is a sticking point; Everton has also shown interest in the young winger. Additionally, Palace has held direct talks with Brighton's Igor Julio, although competition from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Real Sociedad complicates the potential transfer. The club's transfer decisions and player retention are further complicated by the delayed UEFA decision on their eligibility for European competition next season, which affects player futures and recruitment strategies.