Crystal Palace looking to sign Marseille defender Hiroki Sakai?

Marseille defender Hiroki Sakai has reportedly emerged as a potential transfer target for Crystal Palace.

After hauling the Eagles away from the relegation zone before finishing in mid-table in the Premier League, manager Roy Hodgson is expected to be given leeway to make changes to his first-team squad this summer.

According to the London Evening Standard, that could see the London outfit make a move for Sakai, with Marseille said to be willing to sell the 28-year-old.

The Japan international still has three years remaining on his contract, but an offer of £12m could be enough to bring the full-back to Selhurst Park.

Sakai has been with Marseille since 2016 and has made 90 appearances in all competitions, but the player was an unused substitute in last month's Europa League final.

Palace had been in the market for Ryan Fredericks, but the Englishman has opted to leave Fulham for a switch to West Ham United.