Crystal Palace eyeing Genoa striker Jeff Ekhator if they fail to sign Sidiki Cherif | OneFootball

Crystal Palace are considering a move for Genoa striker Jeff Ekhator if they fail to sign Angers striker Sidiki Cherif, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

Palace have reached an agreement over personal terms with Cherif, but they have been unable to agree a fee with Genoa.

The Eagles are looking at other options as manager Oliver Glasner wants a replacement for Jean-Philippe Mateta.

Palace could sign Ekhator before the end of the winter transfer window, as Genoa are prepared to sanction his sale for around €18 million.

However, the Eagles will face competition for his services as the Italy under-21 international striker also has other suitors.

The 19-year-old has scored three goals in 19 appearances this term after ending last term with just one goal and one assist in 24 Serie A games.

The 6ft 2in Genoa academy graduate has huge potential, and Palace believe he has what it takes to succeed in the Premier League.

A move to Selhurst Park right now could appeal to Ekhator, as he could replace Mateta.

Palace have Christantus Uche, Daichi Kamada and Ismaila Sarr as striking options if the France international leaves, but Glasner will hope to bring in another striker.

More options could emerge for the Eagles in the coming days, but they do not have much time left before the February 2 deadline.

Losing Mateta will be a massive blow as he has weighed in with eight goals in 22 league games this season after scoring 30 league goals across the last two campaigns.

Palace will hope to sign the perfect long-term replacement, and they need to do so to boost their chances of winning the Europa Conference League.