Crystal Palace raid Rams for striker prospect Luke Plange

Crystal Palace have signed Derby County striker Luke Plange.

The 19-year-old forward will continue to play his part in the Rams’ fight for Championship survival after the Eagles agreed he could spend the rest of the campaign on loan there.

Palace chairman Steve Parish told the club’s website: “Luke is an exceptionally talented young footballer and one we hope will bring a range of attributes to the club in the years to come.

“But first, he has an important role to fulfil playing at Derby, and we appreciate his significance to them in their current circumstances. It is less than 12 years ago that our club was in a similar situation – as a result we were determined to ensure both clubs benefit through this deal. Therefore Luke will return on loan for the remainder of the season and help Derby with their important battles on and off the pitch.

“I look forward to seeing Luke compete in Palace colours soon, and until then enjoy the performances he continues to give for Derby.”

Plange, who started as a youngster on Arsenal’s books, said: “I’m very excited to be joining a big Premier League club. I’m ready to crack on. Obviously I’ll be with Derby, fighting for them in the Championship at the moment, but I will be ready to go back to Crystal Palace in the summer and get ready to go.”

Plange is the Eagles’ second addition on transfer deadline day after they turned Jean-Philippe Mateta’s loan into a permanent arrangement.