Crystal Palace announce double defender deal

Crystal Palace have signed Chelmsford City’s Danny Imray for an undisclosed fee – as well as taking Cork City’s Jake O’Brien on loan with the view to a permanent deal.

Centre-back O’Brien, 19, has made nine appearances in the Irish Premier League. The Eagles have an option to buy.

He said: “I’m delighted. It’s a big move for me given where I’m from, the club I’m from. I can’t wait to get started.

“I’ve been speaking to [Shaun Derry] a lot over the last two days at the training ground. The facilities are all new – it’s a big step up, so it will be great to use them. It’s very professional and I can’t wait for it all to get started.”

Imray, 17, joins for an undisclosed fee.

Primarily playing as a right-back, Imray also scored 23 goals in 11 matches for Chelmsford’s U18s when he played as a number 10.

He said: “I’m delighted to sign. Coming from non-league it’s big. The facilities are brilliant – it just shows the club is moving forward and going places. I don’t think there’s a better academy to be at.

“I have spoken to Shaun quite a bit about the transition and I am very happy to be playing under him in the U23s. I like the way Shaun and Stephen [Rice] play – I feel like it will suit me and I will thrive off it. I cannot wait to get started and showcase my ability.”