Crystal Palace are now on the verge of sealing a deal to sign an "elite talent", who is excited by the prospect of playing in the Premier League, according to a report.

Decision looms over Palace's Europa League spot

Palace were due to find out whether they will be allowed to play in next season's Europa League on Monday, however, UEFA have once again delayed the verdict, stating they need more time to come to a final decision.

Sky Sports News chief correspondent Kaveh Solhekol added: "Players such as Eberechi Eze, Marc Guehi and Jean-Philippe Mateta are in demand and this latest UEFA delay will only add to the uncertainty surrounding their futures at the club.

"Palace cannot plan and prepare properly when they do not know which competitions they will be playing in next season."

Should the Eagles not be allowed to compete in Europe next season, it could lead to the departures of some key players, while it may also impact the calibre of player Oliver Glasner is able to attract this summer.

However, there has now been a promising update on Crystal Palace's pursuit of Sporting CP's Ousmane Diomande, with a report from Portugal (via Sport Witness) revealing they are now closing in on a deal for the centre-back.

Palace are nearing an agreement, which is set to amount to €55m (£47m), with that figure likely to include bonuses, and the two clubs are now negotiating the final details, including the percentage Sporting will receive from a future sale.

Personal terms are unlikely to be an issue, with Diomande attracted by the project on offer at Selhurst Park, where he will receive a ‘millionaire salary’, and excited by the prospect of playing in the Premier League.

"Elite talent" Diomande could excel at Selhurst Park

Some top clubs have been linked with moves for the starlet as of late, including Premier League rivals Chelsea, but a move to South London could make perfect sense, given that the youngster is likely to receive more game time.

There are also signs the 21-year-old could excel at Selhurst Park, with the ace very highly-rated by scout Jacek Kulig.

It is clear that Palace will need to sign a new centre-back this summer, with Liverpool closing in on a deal for Guehi, and given the Sporting defender's age, he could be a perfect long-term replacement.

Having already made 101 first-team appearances for Sporting, including nine in the Champions League, Diomande could make an instant impact at Selhurst Park, and it is exciting news that a deal is now close to completion.