Crystal Palace announce £14.5m signing of Romain Esse from Milwall as England Under 20 star joins on a five-and-a-half-year deal

Crystal Palace have announced the signing of England youth international Romain Esse from Millwall. 

The 19-year-old winger had been watched by Eagles’ sporting director Dougie Freedman various times this season. 

He had also attracted interest from other Premier League clubs before putting pen to paper on a five-and-a-half-year deal with the Eagles.

Mail Sport previously reported that Palace were closing in on a £14.5million deal for Esse. 

The England Under 20 international, who has made 23 Championship appearances for Alex Neil’s side this season, will join a Palace side in a solid run of form.

Oliver Glasner‘s side have lost just one of their last 10 Premier League games, as they have separated themselves from the relegation zone in recent weeks, now eight points clear. 

The 19-year-old revealed that he is excited to join Palace’s ‘good project’ under Oliver Glasner

Palace Club Chairman Steve Parish said: ‘We are delighted to welcome Romain to Crystal Palace, and we’re looking forward to working with him to continue his impressive progress to date.

‘Romain is the type of player who gets crowds off their seats – the type of player long associated with South London and Crystal Palace Football Club – and everyone at the club is looking forward to watching him shine on the pitch, and fulfil his exciting potential.’

Meanwhile, having put pen to paper on his deal, Esse said: ‘I’m very excited to be here. It’s a good project and a good opportunity, so I just can’t wait to get started.’ 

He will be available for selection for Palace’s clash with Brentford on January 26 and will don the No 21 shirt.

The Lambeth-born teenager began his journey in Millwall’s youth system, before debuting for the Lions in 2022, at just 17 years old.

After landing a more regular spot the starting XI in the second half of last season, Esse has started all but one of Millwall’s Championship matches in 2024-25.

He has scored five goals and contributed one assist in all competitions this season.

Millwall confirmed Esse’s departure in a club record sale and praised the academy graduate’s ‘exemplary attitude and professionalism’.

‘I’m really proud of Romain’s journey with us and what he has achieved at such a young age,’ said James Berylson,’ Millwall chairman.

“In his time at the club, he has matured into a fine young man and has showcased for us what a talent he is on the football pitch. I’m excited to see what the future holds for Romain, and I wish him well.

‘Closer to home, Romain’s journey demonstrates the pathway and potential for young players coming through our Academy, and the amazing guidance they receive from our first-team and Academy staff.

‘Financially, this is a major first step in executing our new vision and strategy outlined this summer. The sale secures a substantial financial benefit for the club, and we have ensured there are possibilities of further financial benefits based on Romain’s progress in the future.

‘Reinvestment to ensure we remain competitive and adding further quality to the team is of paramount importance, as well as ensuring we can improve the infrastructure of the club.’