Patrice Evra is close to joining Crystal Palace from Juventus

Crystal Palace are close to signing Patrice Evra from Juventus, according to Sky in Italy.

It is understood a number of clubs have been interested in signing the former Manchester United left-back, but Palace are favourites for his signature.

Sky in Italy have reported that contact between all parties has been fruitful and the player has also approved a move to Selhurst Park.

Evra won the Champions League during eight successful years at United

It would see Evra return to the Premier League two-and-a-half years since he transferred from Old Trafford to Juventus for £5.5m.

Palace boss Sam Allardyce said on Thursday that his priority in the January window is to strengthen his side's leaky defence, and that he had submitted bids for "three or four players".

Sky sources reported earlier on Thursday that Palace had agreed a £12m fee with Leicester to sign winger Jeffrey Schlupp, while they are also working on a deal for Arsenal right-back Carl Jenkinson.