Chelsea secure rising star Jesse Derry on long-term contract until 2029
Chelsea have officially confirmed the signing of 18-year-old forward Jesse Derry from Crystal Palace, beating out competition from several top European clubs. The highly rated teenager, previously named Palace’s U18 Player of the Year for the 2023/24 season, has signed a contract that runs until June 2029.
Blues Beat European Giants to Emerging Talent
Derry, who made a name for himself with standout performances in Crystal Palace’s under-21 side, had attracted serious interest from RB Leipzig, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Atlético Madrid, PSG, and Juventus. Despite this competition, Chelsea’s direct approach and long-term vision proved decisive in securing the English youth international.
Personal Statement Reflects Deep Chelsea Affection
The player, who has previously represented England at youth level, expressed his excitement in a post on social media, calling the move “a dream come true.” Derry also shared a childhood photo of himself in a Chelsea shirt, captioned “since I was little,” underscoring his lifelong connection to the Stamford Bridge club.
He also posted a heartfelt farewell to Crystal Palace, thanking teammates and staff for their support over 13 years:
“A huge thank you to every teammate and staff member who supported and believed in me during my 13 years at Crystal Palace,” Derry wrote.
Football Legacy Continues
Jesse Derry is the son of former Crystal Palace and Queens Park Rangers midfielder Shaun Derry, adding to the footballing legacy as he begins this new chapter. His arrival represents not only a major investment in Chelsea’s future but also a continuation of a family tradition in English football.
Agent: Chelsea Was Always His First Choice
A spokesperson for New Era Global Sports, Derry’s agency, confirmed that multiple elite clubs were in pursuit. However, once Chelsea made their interest known, the decision was clear:
“As soon as Chelsea got in touch, it was clear Jesse was determined to join the world champions.”
