Crystal Palace have stepped up their pursuit of West Ham United midfielder Soungoutou Magassa, opening direct negotiations with the Hammers, according to journalist Fabrice Hawkins.
Palace officials have been in regular contact with West Ham to clarify the financial terms required for a deal.
After initial exploratory talks, the Eagles are now pushing for a concrete agreement and want to move negotiations toward a final resolution.
Magassa is thought to be very keen on a move to Selhurst Park. The 22-year-old Frenchman, comfortable as a defensive midfielder or central defender, sees Palace as the ideal place to secure regular Premier League football.
Since joining West Ham from Monaco in 2025, the France U21 international and Olympic silver medallist has shown the physicality and energy manager Pierre Sage values in his midfield whenever called upon.
While Palace have made progress in talks with West Ham, a deal is not yet finalised. Discussions are ongoing, and Palace remain wary of rival interest from both domestic and European clubs who could enter the race if negotiations stall.
Nevertheless, Palace’s proactive approach makes them the clear frontrunners for Magassa’s signature. With the player eager for a move to South London, the Eagles are determined to get the deal over the line and add a key defensive asset to Sage’s squad before the window closes.
Magassa is yet to feature for West Ham since early May and is not expected to be in contention for Saturday’s clash with Charlton Athletic.
After throwing away a two-goal lead in their Championship opener against Burnley, West Ham will pick up their first league victory on home turf tomorrow.