Crystal Palace have held more talks for Lens midfielder Cheick Doucoure.

The Daily Mail says Patrick Vieira is looking to build on his impressive first season in charge of the Eagles and Doucoure, 22, would represent a shrewd signing in a difficult market for Palace to operate in.

Vieira has known Doucoure for some time due to his former role as manager of Nice and believes the player would take to English football positively, with a deal thought to be close.

Doucoure has impressed for Lens since their promotion in the Covid-impacted season of 2019-20. His two years in Ligue 1 have seen the 22-year-old develop into a fine young talent.

Such is the esteem in which he has held that Palace signing him would represent a major coup for the club.

However, reports suggest other clubs, that can offer European football, are also in the market for the player.