Derby County striker ignores calls from Ten Hag and McClaren ahead of Crystal Palace transfer

BLACKPOOL, ENGLAND - APRIL 30: Malcolm Ebiowei of Derby County celebrates after scoring his side's first goal during the Sky Bet Championship match between Blackpool and Derby County at Bloomfield Road on April 30, 2022 in Blackpool, England. (Photo by James Gill/Getty Images)

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.

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?

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