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Celtic and Rangers are reportedly ready to battle it out with a host of top European clubs to secure the signature of Crystal Palace starlet Jesse Derry this summer.
The 17-year-old winger, son of former professional footballer Shaun Derry, is attracting serious attention after turning down a professional contract offer from Palace. His decision not to commit his future to the South London club has sparked interest from clubs across Europe, with Chelsea and now both Glasgow giants said to be monitoring the situation closely.
Derry, who has represented England at youth level, has been a standout performer for Palace’s under-18 side. Last season, he racked up 16 goals and six assists, earning him the club’s U18 Player of the Year award. His blistering form has continued this season, scoring 10 goals in just 10 matches, and he recently marked his Premier League International Cup debut with a goal against RB Leipzig.
Often likened to Manchester City’s £100 million man Jack Grealish due to his technical ability and flair, Derry is viewed as one of the most exciting young wingers in the country. His recent call-up to the England U18s only heightened interest in his potential, yet concerns over his first-team prospects at Selhurst Park have reportedly driven his reluctance to sign a long-term deal.
With his current youth scholarship expiring this summer, Palace could lose the highly-rated teenager for a nominal compensation fee, triggering a race among several clubs to secure a bargain for a player with a high ceiling.
According to journalist Pete O’Rourke, both Celtic and Rangers are exploring the opportunity, but they face stiff competition from several Premier League clubs, with Derry’s openness to a move abroad further widening the pool of interested parties.
**Luis Palma Set for Celtic Return After Olympiacos Decision**
In a separate development, reports suggest that Luis Palma is unlikely to remain at Olympiacos beyond this season. The Honduran winger, who joined the Greek champions on loan from Celtic in January, played a role in their recent title-winning campaign. Despite an option to make the deal permanent, Greek outlet EDN TV claims the club has opted against triggering it.
With just the Greek Cup final against OFI Crete left to play, Palma is expected to return to Parkhead in the summer, casting doubt over his future beyond the current season.
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