Arsenal midfielder set to join Crystal Palace | OneFootball

Arsenal Prospect Dan Casey Chooses Crystal Palace Switch

Arsenal youngster Dan Casey is on the verge of a move to Crystal Palace after rejecting a professional contract at the Emirates. As reported by Standard Sport’s Simon Collings, “the London rivals have agreed a compensation fee for the 18-year-old, who was out of contract this summer.”

Casey’s Breakthrough at Arsenal

Casey’s record at youth level was nothing short of outstanding. The attacking midfielder netted 18 goals in 21 appearances in the U18 Premier League, underlining his eye for goal and creative instincts. His progress saw him feature in the UEFA Youth League and even train with Arsenal’s senior squad on several occasions last season.

A product of Arsenal’s academy since the age of seven, Casey has often spoken about the role models that shaped his game. “When I was younger I was a Liverpool fan and loved watching Steven Gerrard and Philippe Coutinho,” he explained to Arsenal’s website. “But now, playing for Arsenal, I really look up to Odegaard. He’s a top player.”

Palace’s Ambition with Youth

The deal comes with Arsenal inserting a sell-on clause, a sign that the Gunners see potential in the teenager even if he has chosen to move on. For Palace, who have built a reputation for giving young talent opportunities in recent seasons, this is another strategic addition. Selhurst Park has already provided a platform for the likes of Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise, and Casey will hope to follow a similar trajectory.

Why Casey Rejected Arsenal

Turning down a professional deal at Arsenal is a bold call, but it highlights a desire for first-team opportunities. Palace arguably offer a clearer pathway for academy graduates to make the leap into Premier League football. For Casey, this may be the decisive factor in shaping his career.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Crystal Palace fan’s perspective, this feels like an exciting bit of business. Dan Casey may not be a household name yet, but his numbers at youth level scream potential. Eighteen goals from midfield in just 21 games is no small feat, especially in an academy as competitive as Arsenal’s.

Supporters at Selhurst Park are always keen to see youngsters given a fair chance, and Palace’s track record suggests he won’t be lost in the shuffle. The development of players such as Tyrick Mitchell and the recent impact of Adam Wharton show that the club isn’t afraid to trust youth in big moments.

There will naturally be questions about whether Casey can handle the physical and mental demands of Premier League football, but fans will be encouraged by the fact that Arsenal wanted to keep him. The inclusion of a sell-on clause is telling—Arsenal clearly believe he could develop into a valuable asset down the line.

For Palace, the move also reflects smart recruitment. The club aren’t just signing for now; they are investing in the next wave of attacking talent. If Casey can adjust quickly, he could become a real gem for the Eagles, especially given his creative instincts and goal threat from midfield.