Derby County striker Malcolm Ebiowei was on Manchester United’s radar, but it sounds like he is ready to join Crystal Palace.
Fabrizio Romano claims the 18-year-old is already signed a contract with the Eagles after completing his medical this week, so there should be an official announcement soon.
Malcolm Ebiowei has now signed the contract with Crystal Palace player, as expected. Deal done and sealed after medical already completed this week. 🔴🔵🏴 #CPFC
Official announcement coming soon – as it’s fully agreed also with Derby County on compensation fee.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 26, 2022
This may come as a blow to United, but this is still a striker with raw potential and a lot to prove once he hits the top-flight. We must also remember that Erik ten Hag has the keys to unlock Alejandro Garnacho in the first-team next season.
It’s only a shame if Ten Hag identified Ebiowei as a target, like The Sun suggests…
The tabloid suggests he rejected United after ignoring multiple calls and text messages from Ten Hag and Steve McClaren.
It wasn’t a long time ago that players would do anything to get a transfer to Old Trafford, which is further proof that there’s a lot of work to be done at United.
SN’s verdict
There is no better indiction for United to not sign a player than if he needs to be convinced to join the club.
But if it’s true that Ebiowei didn’t answer United’s call, I find it bizarre that he’d sign for Palace and not Real Madrid.
How far have we really fallen?