Crystal Palace close on deal to sign Millwall’s Romain Esse

Crystal Palace are closing on a deal to sign Millwall’s Romain Esse.

The South London Press understands the Eagles have moved quickly this January window to secure the 19-year-old’s services ahead of further competition in the summer.

Premier League rivals Newcastle and Bournemouth were both keen on the Lambeth-born winger but Palace are poised to beat them to his signature.

Palace sporting director Dougie Freedman has been watching Esse closely throughout the season.

The Millwall academy graduate has made 23 Championship appearances this season and picked up five goal contributions.

Lions boss Alex Neil said on Thursday: “I think people need to recognise how well we as a club have done by securing Romain on a new contract, which took, by all accounts, a bit of convincing to stay because he wanted to play football.

“He is now playing football, he’s certainly been one of our best performers this season. We don’t want to lose any of our best players but I think everybody understands the contract situation around Romain.

“If he does move, he’ll move for significant money, which from the club’s perspective will be brilliant business considering we could have lost him in the summer for free.”

PICTURE: BRIAN TONKS