Crystal Palace is on the verge of finalizing a deal for Pierre Sage, the current manager of Lens, to become their new head coach. This move comes as the club seeks to replace Oliver Glasner, who departed at the end of last season.

Discussions have progressed well, with Palace now finalizing a financial package to facilitate Sage's transition from the French club to take charge in south London. Sage, who joined Lens just a year ago, achieved remarkable success, leading them to a second-place finish in Ligue 1 and securing the club’s first Coupe de France victory in its 120-year history.

While Palace initially considered former Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, who recently signed a two-year deal with Liverpool, they also explored other candidates including Frank Lampard of Coventry, Kieran McKenna, and Sean Dyche, formerly of Burnley, Nottingham Forest, and Everton.

Sage's attractive style of football is expected to resonate well with Palace supporters, and his proficiency in English is seen as a significant advantage for his upcoming role at Selhurst Park.

Looking ahead, Palace's recent triumph in the Uefa Conference League means they will compete in the Europa League next season. However, they face challenges, such as resolving the future of Jean-Philippe Mateta, who is entering the last year of his contract, and dealing with the potential departure of Adam Wharton, who has attracted interest from other Premier League clubs. Additionally, the club has extended a new deal to Daichi Kamada, whose contract expired at the end of the last season.