Alyeu Ndje has opened up about how close he was to making a move to Crystal Palace last summer. The English club attempted to strike a deal with Torino several times, ultimately making a final bid just as Ndje was en route to Florence for a medical.
Initially, Palace offered €10 million plus €7 million in bonuses for Ndje, later increasing their guarantee to between €12 million and €13 million. However, Torino turned down these offers, and on August 30, Ndje headed to Fiorentina on loan with an obligatory buy clause.
The Swedish winger admitted that he was seriously weighing up the move away from Italy:
It was a tough decision because I wanted to leave Italy. But Fiorentina made me a very good offer that I couldn't refuse.
At various points during the transfer saga, Ndje felt that a switch to Crystal Palace was quite possible, but Torino's repeated rejections prolonged the negotiations.
He recounted:
On certain days, I was close to the move, but Torino kept rejecting their offers.
When I was already on my way to Florence for the medical, Crystal Palace tried to intercept me. But I told them: either Fiorentina or nothing.
They wanted to make one last attempt, but I had already chosen Fiorentina. They were too late. For me, this was the best option, and I am very happy.
Previously, Ndje's agent Sandro Martone mentioned that West Ham also expressed interest in signing him.
One of the main reasons for choosing Fiorentina was the club's project. Ndje was attracted by the young team, and the presence of head coach Paolo Vanoli was also pivotal.
I haven't had much time to explore Florence yet, but I really like it here. The fans have welcomed me wonderfully, and I'm already feeling at home.
The young team was one of the main reasons for my choice. I was presented with a very interesting project: many young players, a lot of talent and potential. Additionally, it was important for me that the team is coached by Paolo Vanoli. This is the perfect next step.
Ndje is a product of Torino's academy and made his first-team debut in 2024. Last season, he played 18 matches, scoring once and providing one assist over 447 minutes. Since moving to Florence, he has already contributed one assist in four appearances.
