Crystal Palace is showing interest in Olympique Lyonnais midfielder Maxence Caqueret, who may be leaving the club as they reduce their squad to meet DNCG regulations. Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford has rejected lucrative offers from Saudi clubs to stay with Manchester United. FC Nantes goalkeeper Alban Lafont is feeling disheartened following the arrival of Anthony Lopes, while Stade Rennais coach Jorge Sampaoli discusses the uncertain future of goalkeeper Brice Samba amid potential transfers.
Crystal Palace Eyes Maxence Caqueret
In a strategic move to comply with DNCG regulations, Olympique Lyonnais has begun downsizing its squad, having already parted ways with Anthony Lopes to Nantes and Gift Orban to Hoffenheim at the onset of this transfer window. According to reports from Foot Mercato, a third departure could be imminent. Midfielder Maxence Caqueret, who has fallen out of favor, is attracting interest from Crystal Palace. This English club boasts John Textor, the American owner of OL, as a minority shareholder. The Eagles are said to be smitten with the 24-year-old Lyonnais, who is under contract until next June, and are prepared to offer 20 million euros along with a five-year deal for the player. Stay tuned for updates!
Marcus Rashford Declines Saudi Offers
Marcus Rashford, who is tied to Manchester United until June 2028, commands a hefty salary of 390,000 euros weekly, which complicates potential transfers within Europe. Reports indicate that Saudi clubs Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli, and Al-Qadsiah have made attempts to sign the 27-year-old forward, with one club even proposing a lucrative 40 million euros annual salary. However, according to Manchester Evening News, Rashford has turned down these offers, opting to remain in Europe to maintain his standing with the new England manager, Thomas Tuchel.
Alban Lafont Struggles at Nantes
Following the acquisition of Anthony Lopes by FC Nantes, the situation for teammate Alban Lafont appears bleak. Reports from RMC Sport suggest that the 25-year-old goalkeeper is feeling quite low, described as “at the bottom of the bucket.” With a contract running until 2027, Lafont faces demotion behind Lopes and Swedish keeper Patrik Carlgren. There are indications that he might seek a departure from Nantes by the end of January.
Brice Samba’s Future at Rennes Remains Uncertain
During a press conference, Stade Rennais coach Jorge Sampaoli addressed the speculation surrounding Brice Samba, the RC Lens captain, amid potential transfers for the goalkeeper position. “We discussed Samba and other players, but for now, no new arrivals. Steve (Mandanda) has a contract that expires in June, and we’re managing that situation. Currently, we rely on him for security, but if another goalkeeper joins, competition will increase,” Sampaoli remarked. This hints at a possible shift that could see Mandanda benched just months before his contract concludes.
TO SEE ALSO – Ligue 1: Olympique Lyonnais bids farewell to Anthony Lopes, who has joined FC Nantes.