A new candidate has emerged in Crystal Palace's prolonged managerial pursuit, with former Borussia Dortmund boss Lucien Favre now entering the frame.

What's the story?

The Eagles have been searching for a new leader for many weeks following the departure of Roy Hodgson after four relatively successful years at the helm.

According to The Guardian, Palace have made contact with Favre's representatives and are expected to hold talks with the 63-year-old over the coming days.

Fans will surely be buzzing 

Several big names have been linked with the vacancy at Selhurst Park, including Chris Wilder, Frank Lampard and Eddie Howe.

It looked as though former Wolves manager Nuno Santo was set to take over the reins, though, until some last-minute demands from the Portuguese tactician saw that move fall through.

However, news that chairman Steve Parish is now targeting Favre will surely have the club's supporters buzzing.

The Swiss boss has enjoyed successful stints at Ligue 1 outfit Nice and Dortmund in recent years, guiding them both into the Champions League while playing some exciting, entertaining football.

And it's his style and reputation for nurturing young talent that has reportedly attracted the capital club's hierarchy to Favre.

Palace had the oldest squad in the Premier League last season, and it's a major issue that Parish is desperate to address over the next few years.

While Favre has been out of work since being sacked by BVB back in December, he did steer them to consecutive second-place finishes in the Bundesliga during his only two full seasons in charge.

And in that time, he oversaw the progression to young hopefuls such as Erling Haaland and Jadon Sancho, who have become first-team stars ever since.

The retired Switzerland midfielder is thought to be keen to manage in the Premier League and is understood to have attracted interest from Everton as they plan for life after Carlo Ancelotti.

Having taken control of almost 800 games throughout his managerial career, Favre is an experienced head capable of achieving results greater than the sum of the parts available to him.

Given the sizeable task at hand for whoever takes the job in south London, having many years of knowledge and expertise will be essential for them to succeed next season.

Favre would be an ideal appointment for Palace, and their loyal fanbase will surely be urging Parish to get this deal over the line.

And, in other news...Huge update emerges about "phenomenal" £40.5m-rated Palace gem, fans will be gutted