News

Chelsea plotting move for red-hot Crystal Palace wonderkid, he’s yet to sign professional contract

Add as preferred source on Google

Crystal Palace will be terrified of losing the most talented youngster currently in the academy, but Chelsea’s interest could make things tricky.

In the summer, Chelsea looked at one point favourites to sign Michael Olise from Crystal Palace – however, this wasn’t to be as he ended up making the move to Bayern Munich instead.

Chelsea will have been gutted to miss out on Olise as he now looks to become recognised for his true world-class ability.

However, the Blues could have the last laugh as they are reportedly keeping a keen eye on the development of one youngster at Selhurst Park.

Chelsea eye up move for Jesse Derry

Crystal Palace currently have one superstar breaking through the ranks at Copers Cope and his name is Jesse Derry.

Derry is a phenomenon for the Eagles Academy and this season has been on fire with six goals and one assist in just five games this season.

But now this form could return to bite Crystal Palace.

Jesse Derry: England v Portugal: Lafarge U18s International Tournament
Photo by Johannes Simon – The FA/The FA via Getty Images

This is according to journalist Bobby Manzi who has reported that questions are continuing over the young England U18’s club future.

Derry has yet to pen a professional contract at Crystal Palace despite being 17, which leaves Dougie Freedman vulnerable to losing the young prospect.

With this in mind, Chelsea are now reported to be monitoring the situation for Derry – a swoop which would be a massive blow for Crystal Palace.

Crystal Palace must avoid repeating Samuel Lusale situation

Crystal Palace already know the feeling of losing an immensely talented 17-year-old – as was the case with Samuel Lusale who joined Manchester United in September.

Lusale was probably behind Derry, the most talented youth player the Eagles had at the club but now he’s gone and for practically nothing considering he hadn’t signed a professional contract.

The Eagles must have learned from this experience and handle the Derry situation better – otherwise, it could be something which becomes a glaring fault for the club.

Derry promises to be a top-class player, and if the Eagles lose him at 17 it will be a huge regret.