Crystal Palace confirm first summer transfer as American youngster joins

Crystal Palace have confirmed their first summer signing as American youngster Jacob Montes joins the club.

The 22-year-old makes the move to South London on a one-year deal, which will be subject to international clearance.

The young star came through the American college system, playing for Georgetown University for four years before graduating recently and agreeing a deal with Palace.

During his time at Georgetown, Montes helped win the side’s first ever NCAA National Championship in 2019, scoring 11 goals and contributing five assists as he picked up the Big East Conference Midfielder of the Year. He has also represented the US national team at Under-19 level.

Montes says he is hoping to make a good impression at the club after achieving a dream of playing professional football.

“I’m extremely excited,” Montes told the club website. “It’s been a dream to be a professional soccer player since I could walk, really, so to be able to sign for a Premier League club is incredible.

“I went through the college system, so I played for Georgetown University for four years, just graduating now.

“That was an incredible experience. We were national champions in 2019 for the first time in the programme’s history, that was amazing.

“I play centre-attacking-midfield, centre-midfield, anywhere through the midfield really; I can play left, right. I’m an attacking-minded player, I’d like to say I’m kind of creative on the ball.

“I want to try to make a good impression, and do whatever I can to perform at the highest level.”

Palace chairman Steve Parish added: “We’ve been really impressed by Jacob, and welcome him to the club.”