Crystal Palace are interested in signing Derby County youngster Malcolm Ebiowei, according to reputable journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The lowdown: Hot property

The 18-year-old has been the subject of attention in recent months following a breakthrough season in the Championship under Wayne Rooney.

Capped by England and Netherlands at the youth international level, the talented attacking starlet has also been linked with AS Monaco and Vitesse previously, but it now appears as though a Premier League move could be on the cards.

As Eagles manager Patrick Vieira attempts to strengthen the ranks, Ebiowei could be about to add further strength in depth to the Selhurst Park squad...

The latest: 'Leading the race'

Taking to Twitter, Romano has claimed that Palace and Manchester United are now the leading contenders to land the teenage sensation this summer.

The transfer expert said: “Manchester United and Crystal Palace are leading the race to sign Derby County's Malcolm Ebiowei, talented striker born in 2003. #MUFC AS Monaco asked for him too but he’s expected to stay in Premier League - Man Utd and Palace are leading the race. #CPFC”

The verdict: Youth project

Recent captures such as Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze and Nathan Ferguson are strong indications of a change of approach from the Palace hierarchy as the Eagles look towards the future under Vieira, having had the Premier League's oldest squad under his predecessor Roy Hodgson.

Hailed as a 'superb talent' by journalist Jake Barker, the versatile attacker - who can play anywhere in the frontline - scored one goal and provided two assists in 16 senior appearances last season. That included a standout display against Blackpool containing one goal, one assist and five tackles in a performance which earned a rating of 7.80 from Sofascore.

Adding Ebiowei to those aforementioned prodigious young talents would be a superb piece of business from Palace, particularly if the teenager chooses the south London club as his preferred choice to continue his development over the might of Manchester United.

In other news, read the latest update on another Palace target