Crystal Palace has decided to begin discussions with Aston Villa for the permanent signing of 24-year-old winger Evann Guessand, following his loan spell at the club which began in the last winter transfer window. The Ivorian international, who has 21 caps and 4 goals for his country, had joined Villa from OGC Nice in the summer of 2025 but was loaned out after not establishing himself. He has since scored one goal and provided one assist in 19 Premier League appearances for Palace. The purchase option for Guessand is estimated to be between €33 million and €38 million. This operation could be aided by the expected sale of Jean-Philippe Mateta. The attacker is currently valued at €28 million and is under contract with Aston Villa until the summer of 2030.