Crystal Palace have moved beyond rumours and engaged in talks with Lens manager Pierre Sage, 47, about taking the head‑coach role. Palace’s search began after Oliver Glasner departed, leaving a vacancy that the club’s hierarchy aims to fill before the next season kicks off. Sage’s recent achievements make him a prime candidate for the club.

Sage took the helm at Lens in June 2023 and steered the French side to a second‑place Ligue 1 finish and a historic Coupe de France win over Nice. His record of 19‑point improvement and trophy success signals a manager capable of navigating Premier League pressures. Palace’s interest follows a failed bid for Andoni Iraola.

Palace have also reached out to Lens to negotiate a release package that would free Sage from his Ligue 1 contract. The club’s move comes after the Spaniard accepted a two‑year deal with Liverpool, ending his bid to join the Eagles. Alternatives on the table include Frank Lampard, Kieran McKenna and former Bolton boss Sean Dyche.

If Palace secures Sage, the club will bring in a coach who has proven he can lift a team to continental contention and lift trophies. The decision will shape Palace’s campaign trajectory and signal to the Premier League that the club is ready to compete for European qualification. The outcome will settle the club’s managerial vacancy.