According to the Independent, Crystal Palace have completed the signing of Drogheda United prospect Killian Phillips.
What’s the story?
Well, it seems as if Crystal Palace have wrapped up their first signing of the January transfer window.
The Independent believe Phillips has signed a two-and-a-half year contract with the Eagles, after impressing during a trial at Selhurst Park.
Interestingly, the Eagles have decided that the 19-year-old fits the bill as a strong, box-to-box midfielder, but also someone who can fill in at centre-back.
Drogheda United Chairman Conor Hoey confirmed that the club have received a transfer fee including add-ons for their teenage prodigy.
Crystal Palace are expected to unveil Phillips before the end of the week.
What should Crystal Palace expect from Killian Phillips?
In our view, the Crystal Palace supporters shouldn’t expect to see Phillips involved in first-team action anytime soon, although he appears to be a very exciting prospect.
As Transfermarkt shows, the Irishman can play in a number of positions.
Last season, Phillips often featured on the wings, making eight appearances on the left and 13 on the right.
He also made six outings at centre-forward.
The fact Drogheda United clearly viewed him as a forward, but Crystal Palace see him as someone who can operate at centre-back, is very intriguing – to say the least.
Clearly, the coaches at Crystal Palace’s new £20m academy have work to do in helping Phillips find his best position.
Wherever he ends up playing, it’s encouraging to see the south Londoners add another gem to their already exciting crop of wonderkids.
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