Exclusive: Highly-rated Palace goalkeeper signs new five-year contract

Joe Whitworth has signed a new five-year contract at Crystal Palace.

The South London Press understands that the highly-rated goalkeeper, 18, has committed his long-term future to the Premier League club.

Whitworth has played 180 minutes for the Eagles’ U21 team this season in the EFL Trophy and featured against Swindon, Bristol Rovers and Plymouth.

He has also been on the bench for Palace for three Premier League matches as well as the EFL Cup tie at Newcastle United.

Whitworth is part of England’s U19 squad and has been capped at other junior levels for his country, including U18 level. He has trained with Palace’s first-team all season.

The teenager started on AFC Wimbledon’s books before signing for their South London neighbours in July 2016.

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD