Alongside Cherif: Crystal Palace Winning Race to Sign ‘Elite Talent’

Crystal Palace’s pursuit of Angers forward Sidiki Cherif appears to have slowed, with the Ligue 1 side continuing to adjust their valuation of the highly rated youngster. The shifting demands have reportedly caused frustration at Selhurst Park and could prompt Palace to explore alternative options in the French market.

That change in approach may lead the Eagles to focus on Brittany, with Rennes striker Mohamed Kader Meite now emerging as a serious target. Reports suggest Palace are monitoring the teenager closely as they weigh up their next move in the transfer window.

Palace have already strengthened their squad with the arrival of Brennan Johnson, although the departure of captain Marc Guehi to Manchester City has left a void at the back. Despite the need for defensive reinforcements, uncertainty surrounding several attackers means a new striker remains a priority — and Meite is increasingly being viewed as a potential solution.

Palace ‘Leading the Race’ for Meite

According to TEAMtalk, Crystal Palace are currently leading the race to sign Meite, with Jean-Philippe Mateta’s future still unresolved. Earlier reports claimed Mateta has informed the club of his desire to leave, with Aston Villa and Juventus among the sides keen on securing his signature. With personal terms unlikely to be a stumbling block, a January exit remains a realistic possibility.

Meite, meanwhile, is quickly establishing himself as one of France’s most sought-after young forwards. Despite attracting lucrative offers from the Saudi Pro League, the Rennes star is believed to be prioritising his long-term development and is open to a move to the Premier League instead.

Labelled an “elite talent,” Meite has enjoyed a rapid rise since making his senior debut in November 2024. His progress has not gone unnoticed, even with reported Saudi bids reaching £35 million, though the striker is unconvinced that a move to the Middle East would benefit him at this stage of his career.

A Long-Term Successor to Mateta?

Standing at 6ft 4in — the same height as Mateta — Meite already boasts an impressive return of three Ligue 1 goals and two assists from just six starts this season. He delivered a Man of the Match display in Rennes’ victory over Lyon and followed that up with a goal and an assist against Strasbourg, further enhancing his reputation.

With Palace’s interest growing, Meite is seen as a strong long-term replacement for Mateta should the Frenchman depart. While still relatively inexperienced, the youngster would have the chance to develop alongside established attacking options such as Eddie Nketiah, Christantus Uche, Ismaila Sarr and Brennan Johnson. That environment could prove ideal for his progression, especially with continued links to Jorgen Strand Larsen.

Although Oliver Glasner is expected to leave at the end of the season and may not be directly involved in the deal, the signing of a young, high-ceiling striker could be exactly what Crystal Palace need as they plan for the future.