Crystal Palace lost a top young talent during the summer transfer window.
The impressive Jessy Derry departed for Chelsea after refusing to sign professional terms at Selhurst Park, following other prodigies such as Reggie Watson and Samuel Lusale out of Crystal Palace.
These exits must have been tough for Steve Parish to take – but Crystal Palace have now pinched a prospect from a Premier League rival themselves as Dan Casey prepares to arrive from Arsenal.
Here is all you need to know about the 18-year-old gem.
Crystal Palace could have an elite finisher on their hands in Dan Casey
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The teenager has opted to reject the offer of a professional contract at Arsenal to pursue a career elsewhere, and unlike Derry, feels Crystal Palace represent a productive environment to develop.
A compensation fee has been agreed between Arsenal and Crystal Palace, with the Gunners managing to negotiate a sell-on clause into the deal.
You can see why Arsenal offered Casey a contract.
The Edgware-born prospect was outstanding last season, scoring 18 goals across just 21 appearances in the U18 Premier League.
Casey also netted two goals and provided one assist in three FA Youth Cup outings.
Not only is the youngster prolific in front of goal, but Crystal Palace are also getting a highly versatile talent, who played in defensive midfield, attacking midfield, the left flank and also as a striker just last season alone.
Position Games Goals Assists
Attacking Midfield 7 8 2
Central Midfield 6 2 0
Striker 5 4 0
Left Midfield 3 3 0
Left Winger 2 0 0
Defensive Midfield 2 3 0
(Transfermarkt)
Arsenal’s official website describe Casey as a player with a “knack for finding the back of the net” and one who thrives when it comes to “link-up play in and around the box”.
Dan Casey impressed Martin Odegaard and idolises Steven Gerrard
Casey was so impressive at Arsenal, that Mikel Arteta even invited him to train with the senior players at times.
One training session even saw the soon-to-be Crystal Palace wonderkid impress none other than Martin Odegaard after a fine attacking move involving Raheem Sterling.
Casey told the official Arsenal website: “There was one moment I’ll never forget. During an 11 v 11 drill, I played in the pocket alongside Odegaard. I did a nice turn and played a pass out to Sterling, and afterwards the captain said well done. That was a really special moment for me because he’s someone I really look up to.”
The Hale End graduate also draws inspiration from Steven Gerrard, adding: “When I was younger I was a Liverpool fan and loved watching Steven Gerrard and Philippe Coutinho.”
Casey does – however – want to be more robust defensively, admitting: “One area I want to improve is my defensive game – winning more duels and becoming stronger off the ball.
“It’s a key part of the game for midfielders like me.”
There is clearly a lot for Crystal Palace fans to be excited about when it comes to Casey – hopefully, the Eagles can help him fulfil his potential in SE25.