Exclusive: Palace reject seven-figure bid for defender

Crystal Palace have rejected a seven-figure bid from French side Troyes for defender Jake O’Brien.

The South London Press understands that the French second division side, who are owned by the City Group, have had a bid north of £1million turned down by the Eagles.

O’Brien is entering the last year of his deal at Selhurst Park and Palace will face losing him for a cut-price fee should they fail to extend his stay beyond next summer.

Troyes were relegated from the French first tier last season after finishing 19th.

The 22-year-old spent last season on loan at R.W.D Molenbeek and excelled in Belgium. He made 31 appearances in all competitions as Molenbeek won promotion to the first division.

Republic of Ireland U21 international O’Brien was wanted by Bristol City last winter, with Nigel Pearson’s side keeping tabs on the 6ft six centre-back throughout the second half of the campaign after failing to land him in the January window.

Alongside Troyes, the City Group have a number of clubs under their guide, including Manchester City, New York City, Melbourne City, Palermo and Girona.

Several Championship sides have also scouted ex-Swindon Town loanee O’Brien throughout the course of last season.