English Premier League club Crystal Palace are on the verge of agreeing a new four-year contract for Caleb Mawuko Kporha as they aim to put an end to ongoing transfer speculation.
The England youth international was born in Medway but has Ghanaian heritage.
The 18-year-old full-back, whose current deal expires this summer, has drawn interest from multiple clubs, with the prospect of signing him on a free transfer increasing speculation about his future.
However, Palace is working swiftly to ensure he remains at Selhurst Park for the long term.
Kporha made his Premier League debut in November last year against Fulham, impressing with his performances and earning a place in manager Oliver Glasner’s plans.
His progress has been closely monitored by outgoing sporting director Dougie Freedman, who has been instrumental in negotiations.
Freedman, whose tenure at the club concludes on Monday, was particularly eager to secure the teenager’s future before his departure.
The young defender’s development has also been recognized on the international stage. He earned his first England U19 call-up this month and made his debut in a goalless draw against Turkey.
Just weeks earlier, he had made his full senior debut for Palace in a Carabao Cup quarter-final defeat to Arsenal. His continued involvement at both club and international levels signals his growing reputation as a promising talent.
Palace manager Oliver Glasner has consistently included Kporha in first-team training and matchday squads, demonstrating confidence in the teenager’s potential.
With Palace set to face Fulham in the FA Cup quarter-finals on Saturday, Kporha could receive another opportunity to prove himself at the senior level.
Speaking about the young full-back, Glasner praised his dedication and progress.
““We have a lot of trust in him, that’s why he trains every day with us. He’s doing really well, he’s improving and improving, and if we feel it’s the right moment, he will get the minutes,” Glasner told the club’s official website months back.
