Pierre Sage has now been confirmed as the new manager of Crystal Palace.
The Eagles announced the news on Monday after the Frenchman was finally approved for a work permit, signing a three-year contract at Selhurst Park after RC Lens were paid £2.6m in compensation.
It is an exciting move for both Crystal Palace and Sage – who made it clear in 2025 that he dreams of managing in the Premier League.
However, the 47-year-old already has a problem to consider as the Guardian claim Manchester United and Liverpool are now interested in signing Maxence Lacroix.
Initial thoughts on Pierre Sage? 🤔
He can boast a 67.5% win ratio from 40 games at RC Lens 😍
Pierre Sage could lose Maxence Lacroix
After making France’s World Cup squad and winning silverware in each of his two seasons at Crystal Palace so far, Lacroix is catching the eye of some huge clubs.
The Guardian say Crystal Palace are already targeting a new centre-back, suggesting the UEFA Conference League winners are somewhat concerned that the France international could leave.
Chelsea also like Lacroix – so a bidding war could commence over the Crystal Palace No.5 this summer.
It would be devastating to lose the 26-year-old, who has become a pivotal figure on and off the pitch for Crystal Palace since his £18m move from Wolfsburg in August 2024.
However, it sounds like Sage and Steve Parish have a plan.
Crystal Palace want to sign Ismaelo Ganiou from RC Lens – who is also admired by PSG and Tottenham.
The 21-year-old played a key role under Sage last season as RC Lens won the Coupe de France and finished second in Ligue 1, although the French side are said to want £35m to sell the defender.
Where do you think we can finish in the UEFA Europa League next season after victory in Leipzig? 🤔
If Nottingham Forest can reach the last four while in a relegation battle, surely we can at least make the final? 👀
The Guardian add that Daniel Munoz and Ismaila Sarr are also expected to attract interest, while Liverpool have been ‘heavily tracking’ Adam Wharton, so it could be a hectic period for Sage once the World Cup is over.
