Borussia Monchengladbach have today completed the signing of 17-year old Mandela Egbo from Crystal Palace.
Egbo, who rejected a professional contract from the London side, joins Gladbach on a four-year deal. The Bundesliga giants confirmed the fullback has signed a contract running until June 30th, 2019.
Eberl delighted to have secured Egbo
Egbo will play for the club's U23 side next season and is said to possess bags of potential, impressing at both club and international level. The team's sporting director, Max Eberl, spoke of the signing saying, "We are very happy that Mandela decided to play for us. He is a player with huge potential."
The young England defender was highly rated at Crystal Palace and his versatility is a positive sign for his new club. Eberl stated, "He can play on the right wing both offensively and defensively."
He added, "Now he has the possibility to rise up through the ranks of the U23 squad and make into the first team."
Egbo made his debut for the South London side's U18s at just 15 years old and appeared 14 times for the Crystal Palace U21 side last season. He was also a member of England's U17 team that won the European Championships in 2014.
After moving up an age group during the most recent campaign, Egbo earned two caps for England's U18s.
Egbo is one of very few Brits to cut their teeth abroad
The switch marks a rare move for British talent moving abroad but could spark a wave of young players aiming to further their careers in other European leagues. Borussia Mönchengladbach, who finished 3rd last season, are aiming to not only become a constant in European competition but also build for the future.
The signing of Mandela Egbo is a clear indication they want to bring young stars through their ranks. The Young Lions defender will not be an immediate impact in Germany but it is only a matter of time before he makes his mark for his new side.