Chelsea have signed Jesse Derry from Crystal Palace, as they add another young winger to their ranks. The 18-year-old England youth international has signed a deal until 2029 after shining in Palace’s academy last season. Derry is the latest youth starlet to join Chelsea’s growing Academy pathway.
Derry’s Rise Through Palace and England Ranks
Jesse Derry spent an impressive 10+ years in the Crystal Palace youth set up, progressing well in their academy. His 2023/24 season was electric — 19 goals and four assists in just 23 Under-18 appearances. His efforts earned him the club’s U18 Player of the Season award.
That talent also saw him move up to Palace’s Under-21 group and gain international recognition. Derry played for England Under-18s and Under 19s and and joined the squad that competed at this summer’s UEFA U19 European Championship. He played against Turkey at the finals where he displayed his pace, composure and maturity in wider areas.
The winger’s development has been steady and he played more than 50 times for Crystal Palace at various youthful levels. His long game development is an example of why Chelsea acted quickly to secure his signature before the new season began.
What Chelsea Gains with Jesse Derry’s Arrival
In their announcement of the deal, Chelsea describe Derry as a “technically gifted winger” with creativity and an eye for goal. His consistent impact in games in the final third aligns perfectly with the Middlesbrough’s long-term vision under new head coach Enzo Maresca.
Not being earmarked to go straight into the first team, Jesse Derry will now join Chelsea’s development squad in which he can further develop amongst outstanding young talent. Chelsea’s setup at Cobham and their strong coaching structure offer an ideal stage for the talented youngster to develop properly and eventually compete confidently at the first-team level.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
