By Isaac Mission
Premier League clubs Crystal Palace and Fulham are reportedly still interested in Stade Brestois 29 defender Raphael Le Guen, with both clubs potentially considering another move for the young centre-back during the January transfer window.
According to French outlet Le 10 Sport, the two London clubs could return for the 20-year-old after failing to secure his signature during the summer window.
Crystal Palace reportedly made several attempts to sign Le Guen during the summer and held discussions involving the defender and then-manager Pierre Sage. However, Brest resisted the approaches and are now believed to be preparing for the possibility of a major sale in January.
The French club is reportedly aware of Le Guen's increasing value and could seek to maximise his transfer fee if interest intensifies during the winter window.
Le Guen's Rapid Rise at Brest
Born in Quimper, France, Le Guen began his football development with Chateaulin FC before progressing through the youth system at Stade Brestois 29.
The defender has since made the step up to Brest's senior side and has already accumulated more than 500 minutes across nine appearances this season.
He has started all three of Brest's Ligue 1 matches so far, completing 270 minutes of league football and establishing himself as one of the club's emerging defensive talents.
His progress at both senior and youth levels has attracted attention from several clubs, with a potential move to England increasingly becoming a possibility.
Why Palace Are Interested
Crystal Palace's interest is understandable given the uncertainty surrounding their defensive options.
The future of Axel Disasi beyond the 2026/27 campaign remains unclear, while Takehiro Tomiyasu is viewed as a short-term option. With Palace also having to account for the departures of Marc Guehi and Maxence Lacroix, adding a young centre-back such as Le Guen could provide both immediate depth and a long-term solution.
Fulham Also Monitoring Situation
Fulham were another club linked with Le Guen during the summer and have apparently maintained their interest despite bringing in David Affengruber on deadline day.
The Cottagers could need further defensive reinforcements if Calvin Bassey eventually leaves Craven Cottage, with the Nigerian international reportedly attracting interest from Inter Milan.
Le Guen could therefore emerge as an option should Fulham need to replace Bassey or strengthen their defensive ranks.
Brest Could Demand a Premium
While Brest reportedly recognise that Le Guen could become one of their biggest future sales, no specific asking price has been disclosed.
Given the defender's age, long-term contract and growing importance to the Ligue 1 side, Brest are likely to command a significant fee if Palace, Fulham or another interested club makes a formal approach in January.
