Sources: Crystal Palace’s new Sidiki Cherif plan revealed after record-breaking offer
Crystal Palace have been frustrated in talks with Angers over the signing of Sidiki Cherif and are currently unwilling to meet their lofty asking price.
The Eagles have been in talks over signing the 19-year-old for weeks now, but are no closer to an agreement, but remain hopeful his price will drop later in the window.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, talks, which started at the beginning of the window, have not progressed as hoped.
Crystal Palace have identified Cherif as a long-term replacement for Jean-Philippe Mateta and had been keen to get ahead of their rivals to do a deal this month.
However, the presence of a number of intermediaries introduced into the deal has further complicated the situation and led to growing frustrations on Palace’s end.
Wrexham make first move in Sidiki Cherif race
Football Insider exclusively revealed on 22 January that Wrexham have made a move for Cherif and have lodged a record-breaking bid worth £19million to Angers.
That fee is currently higher than what the Eagles have offered, as they have so far hoped to agree an initial loan deal with an obligation to buy in the summer.
While it is believed Cherif would prefer a move to the Premier League with Crystal Palace, the Welsh side are currently ahead in the race for his signature.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “Obviously, we mentioned the efforts to sign a replacement [for Mateta], I’ll just touch on a couple of things I’ve heard.
“Sidiki Cherif from Angers over in France is one that Palace have been working on since the start of the window, it’s a deal they want to do.
“It’s not progressing particularly well, I think they want a bit of a steep fee for him that Palace aren’t necessarily willing to pay at the moment.
“But if they can get that knocked down, it might be one they do regardless of Mateta’s situation.
“Plus, there are intermediaries now involved in the deal which have led to frustrations on Palace’s end as it has complicated negotiations and talks with Angers and Cherif.“
Jean-Philippe Mateta update emerges at Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace have targeted Cherif as part of long-term plans to replace Mateta, who is being heavily linked with a move away from Selhurst Park.
Football Insider revealed on 23 January that Crystal Palace have no plans to lose Mateta this month and would be more open to selling him in the summer.
If they can persuade him to stay until the end of the season, they will open the door to his departure in the next window, having already rebuffed offers this month.
That came following reports that the France international has asked to leave Palace amid interest from the likes of Juventus, AC Milan and Aston Villa.
However, Oliver Glasner has since claimed that the striker has not handed in a transfer request and insisted no bid was made by Juventus or any other club.
For more Crystal Palace and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.