Crystal Palace's €20m bid for Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima rejected outright – second offer expected today
Crystal Palace have seen their €20m bid for Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima immediately rejected by the German club. The Eagles are targeting the 24-year-old centre-back as a replacement for Maxence Lacroix, who is closing in on a move to Chelsea. The Bundesliga side are expecting an improved offer from Palace later today.
What happened?
According to NTV, Crystal Palace's first bid for Matsima has been rejected by Augsburg. The defender is currently valued at €22m by Transfermarkt, meaning Palace's initial offer was below his market value. Augsburg are in a strong position, with Matsima contracted until 2030. The German club spent just €5m to sign him permanently last summer after a loan from Monaco, who retain a 15% sell-on clause.
Why it matters for Crystal Palace
With Maxence Lacroix set to join Chelsea for €50m, Crystal Palace are in urgent need of defensive reinforcements. Matsima is seen as the priority target, with Chibuike Nwaiwu now expected to join Fulham instead. The Eagles finished 15th in the Premier League last season with 45 points (11W-12D-15L), conceding 51 goals and finishing 40 points behind leaders Arsenal. Strengthening their defence is a key priority ahead of the new campaign.
What comes next?
Augsburg are holding out for a higher fee, knowing Crystal Palace have significant funds from Lacroix's sale. The Bundesliga side are likely to demand more than €20m, especially with Monaco's sell-on clause in play. Palace are expected to submit a second bid today, with the defender keen on a move to England. Their next fixture is at home against Ipswich on 12 September 2026.
