Crystal Palace switch focus from Iraola and Lampard to Lens manager Pierre Sage

Crystal Palace are in talks with French coach Pierre Sage to become their new head coach after he led Lens to second place in Ligue 1, six points behind PSG, and won the Coupe de France this season. The club had initially pursued Andoni Iraola, but he is now in discussions with Liverpool to succeed Arne Slot, while Palace were also put off by the compensation fee required for Frank Lampard. Sage, who was sacked by Lyon in January 2025 after just over a year in charge, is reported to be keen on joining Palace, with a deal expected to be completed.