Crystal Palace in 'advanced talks' for Chelsea-linked French international goalkeeper — reports

If Chelsea were hoping to be able to call on Steve Mandanda to replace either Asmir Begovic or, in a more extreme case, Thibaut Courtois, then we better act fast.

According to L'Equipe, the 31-year-old France international, who's serving as backup to Hugo Lloris at the European Championships, could very well decide his future by the end of the tournament.  A continuing stay in Marseille seems unlikely, and with his contract expiring in a week, he could be a smart and shrewd signing for any team looking for some top quality goalkeeper help.

Chelsea had been linked a couple weeks ago, but according to this report, it's Crystal Palace who are in the lead.  They had apparently inquired last season, too, unsuccessfully, but are now in "advanced talks".  Everton are also sniffing around.

Of course, Chelsea could've just been part of Mandanda's negotiating tactics with whomever.  Unless something changes, the Blues are well set at goalkeeper for next season, with Begovic serving as backup to Courtois.  But Begovic himself has been linked with Everton, so depending on how that situation's going — Begovic has mostly maintained that he wants to stay — Chelsea might need to dip into the market for a backup.   Unfortunately, Mandanda could be off the market by then.