Crystal Palace sign midfielder Doucoure from RC Lens

The 22-year-old has been a vital part of the Lens team, playing more than 120 games in all competitions and helping them gain promotion to Ligue 1 since arriving from Malian side AS Real Bamako in 2018. The transfer fee was not disclosed.

"I'm very happy, I feel a lot of joy and a lot of pride to be a Palace player. I'm proud to be at Palace today," Doucoure said.

Chairman Steve Parish spoke to the club's official website about Palace's new signing, adding: “Cheick's arrival is yet another statement of intent, demonstrating our ambition to further improve the squad this summer.

“We are extremely confident that Cheick will adapt seamlessly to the rigours of the Premier League and that he will contribute positively to the squad, and I wish him all the very best for his time with us."

Doucoure played 34 times in Ligue 1 last season, guiding Lens to seventh place as a stalwart in the centre of midfield. His efforts capped a successful spell at the French side, having joined them in the second tier in 2018 and been a key part of their promotion-winning campaign.

It is Palace's third signing in the transfer window, after striker Malcolm Ebiowei and goalkeeper Sam Johnstone.