- Crystal Palace face a tough decision
- Andoni Iraola and Pierre Sage top choices
- Other Premier League clubs in the battle
Crystal Palace face a new challenge over a potential target for Oliver Glasner’s successor, with the Austrian departing after the UEFA Conference League Final.
Pierre Sage has previously been identified as a target on the Eagles three-man managerial shortlist, with Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola viewed as a priority for the South London side.
Sage is contracted at RC Lens until the summer of 2028 but could be looking for a tougher challenge in the Premier League following his incredible success this season.
The 47-year-old has taken Lens to the final of the Coupe de France which takes place on 22 May and from finishing eight in Ligue 1 last season to second with Champions League football.
Fulham in the race for Palace target
According to SportsBoom fellow Premier League side Fulham are also interested in the Frenchman with manager Marco Silva out of contract in the summer and yet to decide on his future.
If Palace wish to secure Sage they will need to act decisively to prevent Fulham from winning the race. Sage appears as an ideal target for the Eagles with his tactical flexibility and working under tight financial constraints during his time at Lyon.
Fans may be divided as on the one hand his lack of experience in the Premier League does pose a challenge, while on the other hand his incredible season with Lens does turn heads.
Palace need to act fast
Which ever option Palace chose on their three-man shortlist they will need to act quick to secure their target as the summer looks to be busy for managers across the top leagues.
With Glasner leaving following the Conference League final on 27 May, the Eagles will hope to have someone lined up to lead summer preparations especially if a second season of European football awaits.
Both Sage and Iraola are likely to be attracting attention across Europe, after both had incredible seasons.
