Crystal Palace close to beating ‘several’ clubs to the signing of attacker ahead of the transfer deadline

Crystal Palace are reportedly poised to win the race to sign Cork City attacker Franco Umeh. The Eagles have until the end of this evening to tie up a deal.

According to the Irish Examiner, the 18-year-old is on the ‘verge’ of making the move to England. The report adds that Patrick Viera’s side have matched his release clause of just €75,000 and are set to beat ‘several’ clubs for his signature.

Crystal Palace will see the teenager as a useful long-term option. The London outfit have proven to be a good home for young players and will look to provide him with a pathway into their first-team down the line.

Umeh has made three first-team appearances so far in his career and is being tipped for a bright future in the game. He is also a Rebublic of Ireland youth international.

He has until the deadline tonight to complete his Premier League move. He isn’t expected to be the only arrival at Selhurst Park either with the Eagles working on multiple deals behind the scenes.

In other Crystal Palace news, first-team coach Shaun Derry has left the club. He has managed Notts County and Cambridge United in the past.