BBC Sport confirmed that Crystal Palace have spoken directly to Sage and made contact with Lens to discuss the financial package required to release the 47-year-old from a contract that runs until 2028. Sage told Lens president Joseph Oughourlian and director Jean-Louis Leca of his decision to leave, with L'Equipe reporting that the relationship between club and coach is now beyond repair.
Sage joined Lens last June as successor to Will Still and guided the club to 28 wins, four draws and eight defeats in 40 games, finishing second in Ligue 1 behind PSG. He was named Manager of the Season in France. Lens beat Nice to lift the Coupe de France for the first time in their 120-year history.
Palace's pursuit accelerated after Andoni Iraola — their first choice — opted for Liverpool instead. Sage had already been under serious consideration at Selhurst Park before that situation concluded, and was also on Liverpool's own longlist.
Lens's last card — the prospect of Champions League football next season — was not enough to change Sage's mind.
The compensation figure and timeline remain unresolved, but Sage's personal position is now publicly established.