Crystal Palace secured a highly coveted defender for £17m, despite Aston Villa’s interest at £14m. The player rejected Villa’s offer not only because it was lower than Palace’s, but also due to a shocking message he received from the Villa manager.

Crystal Palace have reportedly entered the chase for a highly rated young defender also being pursued by Aston Villa.

With captain Marc Guehi’s future uncertain, Palace are in the market for a new centre-back. Their clash with Villa in the Premier League this weekend may not be the only battle between the two clubs, as both appear ready to go head-to-head over Toulouse’s teenage talent, Canvot.

Villa’s need for defensive cover was exposed last weekend when Unai Emery had to pair two left-footed centre-backs, Pau Torres and Tyrone Mings, due to Ezri Konsa’s suspension. While full-back depth is strong with Lucas Digne and Ian Maatsen, reinforcements in central defence remain a priority.

Nineteen-year-old Canvot, currently a France U19 international, is high on Villa’s wish list. Talks have been ongoing throughout the summer, with a bid rejected in July and another turned down last week, according to Fabrizio Romano. Toulouse are said to be holding firm at around €20m (£17.2m). Though relatively inexperienced, with just one full senior season and 18 Ligue 1 appearances under his belt, his potential is seen as immense.

Palace’s late interest could disrupt Villa’s pursuit, as Romano claims the London side have now ‘entered the race.’ From Canvot’s perspective, the pathway to minutes at Selhurst Park could be clearer, especially with speculation over Guehi’s departure and Oliver Glasner’s preference for a back three.

At Villa, competition would be tougher, with Konsa, Torres and Mings already established. Still, Emery admires Canvot’s versatility—he can also play as a defensive midfielder—and the player is believed to view the Premier League as an ideal next step.

Whether he chooses Palace or Villa may come down to opportunity as much as finances.